Local space expert speaks on the future of space exploration
COLUMBUS, Ga. () — SpaceX's recent launch failures seem to cast an unsettling light on the future of space travel. However, a local space travel expert says these test failures are a form of progress.
Last week, Space X launched a large Starship rocket, marking their eighth test launch. The rocket suffered a malfunction and broke apart. This was the second failed launch in a row.
The launch results seemed concerning because the Starship rocket is a major player in NASA's plans to send astronauts back to the moon.
Executive Director of Columbus State University's Coca-Cola Space Science Center, Dr. Shawn Cruzen says the failures are unsurprising, due to Space X's philosophy of engineering.
'It's called Agile development. In other words, instead of doing a lot of testing and modeling on computers, they actually build the hardware and fly it,' says Dr. Cruzen. 'They figure out what goes wrong, fix it, and fly again. So, in some regards, the style of SpaceX is to blow up rockets, figure out what went wrong. They're close to success now, they're going to get there.'
Despite the setbacks, SpaceX's advancements in reusable rockets are changing the industry. When comparing single-flight rockets to the newer alternative, Dr. Cruzen says, 'It would be like if you if you flew an airplane across the country and you had to throw the airplane away after your flight. That's really expensive.'
The continuing progress suggests a boom in the space industry, with projections estimating it will be worth $1.8 trillion globally by 2030. Meaning, more astronauts, more innovation, and more opportunities.
SpaceX plans to launch several new tests this week.
The future of space exploration may originate here in Columbus. Several former Columbus State University students and faculty are playing a role in these innovations, working on projects from Artemis to lunar housing. These alumni are working hard on various space programs.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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