SpaceX needs Mini-Starship to reach Moon by 2028

SpaceX is racing to create a new version of its Starship, called "Mini-Starship." This smaller spacecraft could help land astronauts on the Moon by 2028. Experts are concerned that the U.S. might fall behind in the new space race, particularly with plans to send astronauts to the Moon's South Pole as part of NASA's Artemis program. NASA has given SpaceX contracts worth over $4 billion to develop the Starship for its upcoming missions. With the seventh test flight of the original Starship resulting in an explosion, some lawmakers are worried about the project's progress. Congressman Mike Haridopolos emphasized that landing on the Moon would be a historic moment for America. However, some experts doubt NASA's current schedule. Daniel Dumbacher, an aerospace engineer, criticized the plan, saying it has a low chance of success by 2027 or even 2030. He suggested that a simpler lunar lander might be necessary to meet deadlines. Dr. Robert Zubrin, a leading strategist for Mars exploration, proposed that SpaceX create the Mini-Starship to expedite missions to both the Moon and Mars. He believes this new design could make exploration significantly more efficient. Zubrin explained that while SpaceX currently plans to use one large Starship for both missions, a smaller Starboat could enhance its capability. Zubrin's ideas have caught the attention of SpaceX founder Elon Musk, as he believes the Mini-Starship could be ready for lunar missions in just a few years. He pointed out that having both a Starship and a Starboat could help U.S. astronauts explore beyond just local areas on the Moon and Mars. In a recent webcast, Zubrin stressed the need for ambitious space missions to demonstrate the strengths of freedom and innovation. He noted that the current global situation makes it essential for America to showcase its technological prowess in space.