NASA panel estimates Starship will need 22 in-orbit refuelings to reach the Moon
NASA's Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel calculates that a SpaceX Starship would require 22 in-orbit refuelings to reach the lunar surface, according to Ars Technica. Elon Musk says the real figure will be 6 to 8. SpaceX plans a first orbital refueling test in early 2027, ahead of the 2028 landing, and is competing for the contract with Blue Origin, whose plan calls for four New Glenn launches.
In 35 seconds
- NASA's advisory panel calculates 22 in-orbit refuelings per Starship heading to the Moon; Musk says it will be 6 to 8.
- No rocket has ever performed an in-orbit refueling and SpaceX has not yet attempted one.
- The first orbital refueling test is planned for early 2027, ahead of the 2028 landing.
IASummary generated by artificial intelligence from a story by Jalopnik. It may contain errors: the original source prevails.





Comments
Be respectful. Comments reported by several people are hidden until a moderator reviews them.
You do not need an account to read, only to comment. Sign in with a code sent to your email or with your Google account. We only show the name you choose, never your email.