Key Takeaways
- Trump might go to SpaceX’s launch on November 19, which would emphasize his relationship with Elon Musk.
- At 4:00 p.m. CT, SpaceX will conduct its sixth Starship test, which will concentrate on reusability.
- Given SpaceX’s federal contracts, Musk’s new position in government creates ethical questions.
In keeping with his relationships with CEO Elon Musk, Donald Trump may be able to attend a SpaceX launch in Texas on November 19.
According to Reuters, the Federal Aviation Administration has imposed “temporary flight restrictions for VIP movement” over Brownsville and Boca Chica, Texas, ahead of a high-profile visit that also happens to coincide with SpaceX’s Starship rocket launch. The aircraft ban above Donald Trump’s Palm Beach, Florida, property will be temporarily eased during this period.
The Sixth Starship Test by SpaceX
After the October launch was successful, SpaceX will test the Starship rocket—the biggest and most potent rocket ever constructed—six times. Heat shield testing, re-entry procedures, and improved booster safety are among the main goals, with improvements to increase reusability for next missions.
About ten minutes after liftoff, SpaceX intends to snag Starship’s 233-foot “Super Heavy” rocket using big arms atop a launch tower. This reusable method caught Trump’s attention during SpaceX’s initial attempt in October.
The live webcast will begin around half an hour prior to launch and will be accessible on SpaceX’s website, X, and the X TV app. The test is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. CT (5:00 p.m. ET, 10:00 p.m. UTC).
Musk’s Position in the Trump Administration and Moral Issues
Throughout the presidential transition, Elon Musk has been a frequent visitor, meeting with Trump and accompanying him to events such as a UFC bout and a meeting with House Republicans. Trump has frequently praised SpaceX’s rocket flights, particularly the recapture of a reusable booster, during his campaign speeches.
Alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, Musk, who allegedly gave $200 million to Trump’s campaign, has been named head of the Department of Government Efficiency, whose name, DOGE, is a play on Musk’s cryptocurrency, Dogecoin. Musk’s federal interests have sparked ethical questions about this. Musk is expected to pursue other contracts, including those with the Pentagon for military and cargo operations, in addition to the $4.4 billion the federal government has already committed to SpaceX for Starship lunar trips.
