SpaceX Prepares for Starship Test Launch

Elon Musk's SpaceX is set to launch its most powerful rocket, Starship, in a sixth test flight today from Boca Chica, Texas, with Donald Trump expected to attend, highlighting their burgeoning relationship. The mission aims to achieve four critical objectives, including improving upon the previous successful catch of the first-stage booster, which is part of Musk's vision for fully reusable rockets. SpaceX plans to use Starship for future human space exploration, targeting a permanent human colony on Mars by 2050. The launch window opens at 4 PM local time, and the mission will also include an in-space burn using a Raptor engine. Musk's influence within the incoming Trump administration could benefit SpaceX, particularly concerning NASA contracts and communications policies. The launch is seen as a significant step in advancing Musk's Mars ambitions and potential government support.