Trump Observes SpaceX Rocket Launch by 'First Buddy' Musk

Starship 6th Test Flight to be Observed in Texas on 19th at 5 PM Eastern Time

President-elect of the United States Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the launch of a SpaceX spacecraft led by 'First Buddy' Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla.

The New York Times (NYT) and CNN reported on the 18th (local time) that Trump is expected to attend the launch site of the 6th Earth orbit test flight of the 'Starship' in Texas at 5 p.m. Eastern Time on the 19th.

AFP Yonhap News

Starship is a spacecraft developed by SpaceX with the goal of exploring the Moon and Mars. Similar to the 5th test flight last October, the massive rocket booster is expected to return to the launch pad and land gracefully, as if being caught by chopstick-shaped robotic arms. During his presidential campaign, Trump often mentioned this scene when talking about CEO Musk, expressing admiration and praise.

Trump’s attendance at the Starship launch is seen as another indication of Musk’s rising influence, who is exerting considerable sway in the selection process of the next cabinet. Musk, who has been appointed as co-head of the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the next administration, has accompanied Trump at major events such as UFC viewings since the election, showcasing their close relationship.

Bloomberg News stated, "Tesla’s stock soared with Trump’s victory, and Musk’s net worth has grown to over $300 billion," adding, "Trump’s attendance at this rocket launch will mark a significant milestone that brings substantial rewards to Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla."