- SpaceX pushes for intercontinental space travel after Trump re-election boosts regulatory prospects.
- Musk’s ‘Earth to Earth’ rocket flights promise rapid global travel but with astronaut-like challenges.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has revived his ambitious vision for ultra-fast, intercontinental travel via the Starship rocket, claiming that trips like New York City to Shanghai in 40 minutes are “now possible.”
Musk’s announcement follows recent political shifts, with Trump’s re-election believed to potentially expedite regulatory approvals through a supportive FAA.
SpaceX’s “Earth to Earth” program envisions travelers boarding the Starship rocket for suborbital journeys across the globe, making travel times that previously took hours achievable in under an hour.
Passengers would experience liftoff and re-entry at speeds up to 16,700 mph, with some routes anticipated to take as little as 30 minutes. Unlike traditional long-haul flights, however, passengers must be prepared for intense G-forces and limited in-flight amenities.
SpaceX illustrated the concept in a promotional video, showing passengers departing from New York Harbor by boat, reaching an offshore launchpad, and rocketing to Shanghai—all within a 40-minute span. Although the concept has captivated many, SpaceX has cautioned that such rapid flights may forgo standard amenities like toilets or food, advising travelers to “plan bathroom breaks” strategically.
Originally developed for Mars missions, Musk’s Starship could redefine global travel if the technology proves viable and receives regulatory backing, setting a new standard for speed in international transportation.
