A recent explosion at SpaceX’s testing facility in Texas has reignited concerns about the viability of Elon Musk’s plan to colonize Mars. On June 18, a Starship prototype erupted in fire and smoke during a routine ground test, marking the fourth failure this year. The incident underscored persistent design and engineering hurdles as the company targets the next optimal launch window in 2026.
Speaking to employees at Starbase just days after a separate failed reentry, Musk reaffirmed that progress would be measured by how soon a self-sustaining Mars settlement could be established. As reported by CNN, his roadmap includes sending up to five uncrewed Starships to the red planet during the late-2026 travel window—when Earth and Mars are closest.
With repeated setbacks, doubts are growing about whether SpaceX can deliver on that timeline. These challenges come at a time when the billionaire faces increasing scrutiny—not only for SpaceX’s technical hurdles but also for his role in US politics, including controversial cost-cutting measures, close ties with federal agencies, and, most recently, his much-publicized "breakup" with President Donald Trump.
Is Musk’s Mars mission a giant leap for mankind or just another high-stakes gamble by one of today’s most polarizing figures? Click through the following gallery to learn more about Musk's journey from business to politics, and why it’s been causing such a stir lately.