SpaceX Rejects Military Work While Starship Needs 22 Refuels
The company turned down three government contracts, and a safety panel revealed the high fuel demand for lunar missions.
By Malik Salazar ·
A NASA safety panel said that up to 22 refuelings might be required to support a lunar landing with SpaceX’s Starship. This figure highlights the significant logistical challenge for the vehicle. It stands as the most striking number in this week’s space news.
SpaceX made two major announcements this Thursday. First, the company told the US Space Force that it would not accept three offered military launch contracts. The decision was a surprise to many in the industry. It shows the firm is selective about its government work. Second, the panel’s finding on refueling rates added complexity to the Starship program.
The refueling requirement is a caveat for future missions. It suggests that the vehicle needs frequent stops to fill its tanks. This process is essential for reaching the Moon. The safety panel provided this estimate to ensure mission planners are prepared. It is a key open question for the next phase of development.
In Europe, PLD Space is moving closer to a major milestone. The company says its Miura 5 rocket is nearing final integration. This small-lift vehicle is scheduled for its inaugural launch next year. Aviation Week reported that the rocket is almost ready. The company has already manufactured three of these vehicles.
CEO Raúl Torres explained the strategy behind building three units. He stated in an October 19 update that this approach allowed teams to work continuously. They applied lessons from each qualification campaign to the launch vehicle. One second stage is now fully integrated. It is at the Teruel test facility for system-level testing. This includes a wet dress rehearsal and a static hot-fire test. The company targets a first flight before mid-2027.
Across the Atlantic, Reaction Dynamics is seeking $350 million in funding. The Canadian startup wants to grow its staff from 68 to more than 350 people. It is developing the small-lift Aurora rocket, which aims to reach orbit in 2028. The company also announced plans for a medium-lift rocket called Borealis. That vehicle is expected to debut by 2031. This capital raise is critical for their expansion.
