History of SpaceX in Timeline
SpaceX, founded in 2002 by Elon Musk, is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company headquartered in Hawthorne, California. The company's ultimate goal is to make life multi-planetary by colonizing Mars. SpaceX develops, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft, including Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, and Starship.
2001: Elon Musk Joins Mars Society
Elon Musk met Robert Zubrin and donated $100,000 to the Mars Society in 2001, briefly joining its board of directors. He presented his "Mars Oasis" project at their convention, envisioning a greenhouse on Mars.
2002: SpaceX is Founded
Elon Musk founded SpaceX in 2002 with the goal of reducing space transportation costs and eventually enabling the colonization of Mars.
2002: SpaceX Begins Hiring
In 2002, Elon Musk started recruiting for his new company, SpaceX. He sought out individuals like Michael Griffin, Jim Cantrel, John Garvey, Tom Mueller, and Chris Thompson for key roles. SpaceX was initially based in a warehouse in El Segundo, California, drawing many early employees from companies like TRW and Boeing. Elon Musk personally interviewed every early employee.
2002: SpaceX Embarks on Rocket Engine Development, Fueling Its Ambitions
Since its founding in 2002, SpaceX has focused on developing a series of rocket engines, including Merlin, Kestrel, Raptor, Draco, and SuperDraco, showcasing its commitment to innovation and advancing space exploration capabilities.
2004: SpaceX Protests NASA Contract
SpaceX protested a NASA contract awarded to Kistler Aerospace in 2004, leading to NASA's withdrawal of the contract and the creation of the COTS program.
November 2005: SpaceX Reaches 160 Employees
SpaceX had grown to 160 employees by November 2005.
2005: SpaceX Opts for Falcon 9 Development
Instead of developing the Falcon 5, SpaceX decided to focus on developing the reusable, heavier-lift Falcon 9 in 2005.
2005: SpaceX Awarded Air Force IDIQ Contract
In 2005, SpaceX was awarded an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract by the United States Air Force. This contract allowed the Air Force to purchase up to $100 million worth of launches from SpaceX, establishing an early relationship between the company and the U.S. military.
2005: SpaceX Announces Human-Rated Space Program
In 2005, SpaceX announced its intention to develop a human-rated commercial space program, which would later evolve into the Dragon spacecraft.
2006: ULA Monopoly on U.S. Air Force Classified Launches
Before SpaceX's Falcon 9 v1.1 received NSSL certification in 2015, the United Launch Alliance (ULA) held a monopoly on launching classified payloads for the U.S. Air Force since 2006. SpaceX's certification introduced competition into this market, potentially leading to cost savings for the government.
2006: SpaceX Achieves First Successful Launch of Falcon 1
In 2006, SpaceX achieved a significant milestone with the first successful launch of its Falcon 1 rocket, marking a key step in the company's early development.
2006: SpaceX Wins NASA COTS Phase 1 Contract
In 2006, SpaceX secured a significant victory by winning a NASA Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) Phase 1 contract. This contract marked a crucial step towards SpaceX's goal of providing cargo delivery services to the International Space Station (ISS), with the possibility of crew transport in the future.
2006: NASA Supports Falcon 9 Development
NASA provided support for the development of Falcon 9 in 2006, committing to purchase commercial flights if SpaceX could demonstrate specific capabilities. This support began with seed money from the COTS program. The overall contract, worth $278 million, funded the development of the Dragon spacecraft, Falcon 9, and demonstration launches of the Falcon 9 with Dragon.
2006: SpaceX Awarded NASA Contract for ISS Resupply
NASA selected SpaceX in 2006, awarding them a $396 million contract to demonstrate crew and cargo resupply to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the COTS program.
2006: First Falcon 1 Launches Under DARPA Falcon Project
The United States Department of Defense purchased the first two Falcon 1 launches in 2006 under the DARPA Falcon Project, which aimed to evaluate new US launch vehicles suitable for hypersonic missile delivery for Prompt Global Strike.
April 2007: SpaceX Approved to Use Cape Canaveral SLC-40
The Pentagon granted SpaceX approval to utilize Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex 40 (SLC-40) in April 2007.
September 2008: First Successful Falcon 1 Launch and Financial Recovery
The fourth attempt at launching Falcon 1 proved successful on September 28, 2008, marking a turning point for SpaceX's financial situation. Elon Musk divided his remaining $30 million between SpaceX and Tesla, and NASA awarded SpaceX the first Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) contract worth $1.6 billion in December, effectively rescuing the company from bankruptcy.
2008: Early Falcon 1 Launches Fail, SpaceX Faces Financial Crisis
The first three Falcon 1 launches between 2006 and 2008 all ended in failure, pushing SpaceX to the brink of collapse. This coincided with financial troubles at Tesla Motors, bringing Elon Musk, Tesla, and SolarCity close to bankruptcy. The stress of this period reportedly led to Musk experiencing nightmares and physical pain.
2008: NASA Awards First CRS Contracts
In 2008, NASA initiated the Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) program by awarding contracts for the delivery of cargo and supplies to the International Space Station (ISS) using commercially operated spacecraft.
July 2009: Falcon 1 Retired After Second Successful Launch
Following its second successful launch (and fifth overall) in July 2009, SpaceX retired the Falcon 1 to concentrate its resources on developing the larger Falcon 9 orbital rocket. Gwynne Shotwell was promoted to company president around this time for her successful negotiation of the CRS contract with NASA Associate Administrator Bill Gerstenmaier.
2009: SpaceX Retires Falcon 1 Launch Vehicle
In 2009, SpaceX retired its small-lift launch vehicle, the Falcon 1, after five launches, paving the way for its successors, the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy.
2009: Falcon 1 Completes Its Final Launch, Cementing Its Legacy
In 2009, the Falcon 1 rocket completed its final launch, concluding its operational lifespan and solidifying its place as the first privately funded, liquid-fueled rocket to reach orbit.
June 2010: Falcon 9 Successfully Reaches Orbit on Maiden Voyage
In June 2010, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket achieved a successful orbital launch on its first attempt, marking a significant achievement for the company and its medium-lift launch capabilities.
June 2010: First Falcon 9 Launch with Dragon Spacecraft Mockup
The Falcon 9 launched for the first time in June 2010, carrying a mockup of the Dragon spacecraft. This launch was part of SpaceX's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services (COTS) program contract.
December 2010: SpaceX COTS Demo Flight 1 Success
In December 2010, SpaceX achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first private company to successfully launch, orbit, and recover a spacecraft. This mission, known as the SpaceX COTS Demo Flight 1, demonstrated the company's capabilities and marked a significant step towards commercial space exploration.
December 2010: First Operational Dragon Spacecraft Launch
The first operational Dragon spacecraft launched in December 2010 on the Falcon 9's second flight, COTS Demo Flight 1. The Dragon spacecraft successfully returned to Earth after two orbits, achieving all of its mission objectives. SpaceX's production line was producing a Falcon 9 and a Dragon every three months by this time.
2010: Falcon 9 Launches from SLC-40
SpaceX started using SLC-40 for Falcon 9 launches, primarily to low Earth and geostationary orbits, in 2010.
2010: First Launch of Cargo Dragon
The first version of the Dragon spacecraft, designed for cargo transport, was launched in 2010.
April 2011: NASA Awards Contract for Dragon Launch Escape System
As part of its second-round Commercial Crew Development (CCDev) program, NASA granted SpaceX a $75 million contract in April 2011 to develop an integrated launch escape system for the Dragon spacecraft, paving the way for its human-rating as a crew transport vehicle to the ISS.
2011: Last Crewed Vehicle Launch from the U.S.
Before SpaceX's Crew Dragon Demo-2 mission in 2020, the last time a crewed vehicle launched from the U.S. was in 2011. This highlights the significant gap in U.S. human spaceflight capabilities that SpaceX helped to bridge.
2011: NASA's Cost Estimation
In 2011, NASA estimated that developing a rocket like the Falcon 9 booster through its traditional contracting processes would cost about $4 billion, approximately ten times more than SpaceX's development cost.
2011: SpaceX Awarded First CCDev Contract
In 2011, SpaceX secured its first contract under NASA's Commercial Crew Development (CCDev) program. This program aimed to foster the development of commercially operated spacecraft capable of transporting astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).
2011: SpaceX Leases Vandenberg SLC-4E
SpaceX leased Vandenberg Space Launch Complex 4 (SLC-4E) from the military in 2011 to launch payloads into polar orbits.
May 2012: Dragon Becomes First Commercial Spacecraft to Deliver Cargo to ISS
With the launch of Dragon C2+ in May 2012, Dragon became the first commercial spacecraft to deliver cargo to the International Space Station. This achievement nearly doubled SpaceX's private equity valuation to $2.4 billion or $20 per share. By this point, SpaceX had operated on approximately $1 billion in total funding over its first decade, with private equity contributing about $200 million. Of that, Elon Musk invested approximately $100 million, and other investors contributed roughly the same amount.
May 2012: SpaceX COTS Demo Flight 2 and ISS Berthing
In May 2012, SpaceX accomplished another remarkable feat during the SpaceX COTS Demo Flight 2 mission. Dragon, SpaceX's spacecraft, successfully berthed with the International Space Station (ISS). This achievement marked the first time a private spacecraft had successfully docked with the ISS.
May 2012: Falcon 9 Delivers Commercial Spacecraft to the ISS, Marking a New Era
On May 22, 2012, SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket launched the first commercial spacecraft to successfully dock with the International Space Station (ISS), ushering in a new era in commercial space exploration.
August 2012: SpaceX Awarded Contract for Crew Transportation System Design
NASA awarded SpaceX a fixed-price Space Act Agreement (SAA) in August 2012 to produce a detailed design of the crew transportation system.
October 2012: SpaceX Expands McGregor Facility
In October 2012, SpaceX was operating its McGregor facility at high capacity with seven test stands in operation almost continuously. The company was also expanding the facility and building more test stands due to increasing production and a growing mission manifest.
October 2012: SpaceX CRS-1 Mission Launch
In October 2012, SpaceX launched its first Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) mission, SpaceX CRS-1. The mission successfully achieved orbit, berthed with the ISS, and remained on station for 20 days before returning to Earth and splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.
December 2012: SpaceX Awarded First DoD Launch Contracts
In December 2012, SpaceX announced its first two launch contracts with the United States Department of Defense (DoD), marking a significant expansion of the company's customer base and highlighting its growing role in national security space missions.
2012: SpaceX Conducts Low-Altitude VTVL Flight Testing
SpaceX carried out low-altitude vertical takeoff, vertical landing (VTVL) flight tests of the Falcon 9 Grasshopper at its McGregor facility in 2012.
2012: SpaceX Starts Reusability Test Program
SpaceX initiated its active reusability test program in late 2012, focusing on low-altitude, low-speed aspects of landing technology. The program involved Falcon 9 prototypes performing vertical takeoffs and landings (VTOL).
2012: SpaceX Awarded Second CCDev Contract
In 2012, SpaceX was awarded a second contract under NASA's Commercial Crew Development (CCDev) program. This contract provided further support for the continued development and testing of the Dragon 2 spacecraft, designed to safely transport astronauts to and from the ISS.
2012: Commercial Launch Market Share
In 2012, there were no commercial launches from the United States. This changed dramatically by May 2020, with NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine attributing the change to NASA's investments in SpaceX.
2013: High-Velocity Reusability Tests Begin
High-velocity, high-altitude tests for the booster's atmospheric return technology commenced in late 2013.
2013: SpaceX Upgrades Falcon 9 to Version 1.1
In 2013, SpaceX introduced an upgraded version of its Falcon 9 rocket, designated as Falcon 9 v1.1, incorporating improvements and enhancements to enhance its performance and capabilities.
2013: Market Pressure on Competitors
In 2013, SpaceX's low launch prices for communications satellites to geostationary transfer orbit created market pressure on its competitors to lower their own prices. Before this, the market had been dominated by Arianespace and International Launch Services.
2013: SpaceX Continues Low-Altitude VTVL Flight Testing
SpaceX continued its low-altitude VTVL flight tests of the Falcon 9 Grasshopper at its McGregor facility in 2013.
2013: SpaceX Launches First Commercial Mission for Private Customer
SpaceX launched the first commercial mission for a private customer in 2013.
April 2014: SpaceX Leases Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A
SpaceX signed a 20-year lease for Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A in April 2014.
July 2014: FAA Issues Permit for Boca Chica Launch Facility
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted SpaceX the permit for its Boca Chica launch facility in July 2014.
August 2014: SpaceX Announces Plans for Boca Chica Launch Facility
SpaceX first announced its plans to establish a launch facility in Boca Chica, near Brownsville, Texas, in August 2014.
September 2014: NASA Selects SpaceX and Boeing for Crew Transportation
In September 2014, NASA selected SpaceX and Boeing as the two companies to receive funding for developing systems to transport U.S. crews to and from the International Space Station (ISS). This decision reflected NASA's commitment to leveraging commercial partnerships for human spaceflight.
September 2014: SpaceX Awarded Commercial Crew Transportation Capability Contract
In September 2014, NASA's Director of Commercial Spaceflight, Kevin Crigler, awarded SpaceX the Commercial Crew Transportation Capability (CCtCap) contract to finalize the development of the Crew Transportation System.
January 2015: SpaceX Raises $1 Billion in Funding and Announces Starlink Development
In January 2015, SpaceX raised $1 billion in funding from Google and Fidelity Investments, establishing the company valuation at approximately $12 billion. The same month, SpaceX announced the development of Starlink, a new satellite constellation to provide global broadband internet service.
January 2015: SpaceX Enters Satellite Production and Internet Business
In January 2015, SpaceX declared its entry into the satellite production and global satellite internet business, acquiring its first satellite facility in Redmond, Washington.
May 2015: SpaceX Conducts Crew Dragon Pad Abort Test
In May 2015, SpaceX successfully conducted a crucial flight test of its Crew Dragon spacecraft - the Pad Abort Test. This test demonstrated the spacecraft's ability to safely abort a mission and protect the crew in case of an emergency during launch.
June 2015: Falcon 9 CRS-7 Mission Failure
In June 2015, the seventh ISS resupply mission, CRS-7, exploded two minutes into the flight due to a failed steel strut in a helium pressure vessel.
June 2015: SpaceX Announces Hyperloop Competition
SpaceX revealed its sponsorship of a Hyperloop competition in June 2015 and committed to building a test track for the event.
December 2015: SpaceX Achieves First Successful Landing of a Falcon 9 First Stage
SpaceX achieved a successful landing and recovery of a Falcon 9 first stage for the first time in December 2015.
2015: Landing Zone 4 Established at Vandenberg
Vandenberg's SLC-4W was converted into Landing Zone 4 in 2015 for booster landings.
2015: Landing Zones 1 and 2 Established at Cape Canaveral
Launch Complex 13 at Cape Canaveral was renamed Landing Zones 1 and 2, starting in 2015, and was used for Falcon 9 first-stage booster landings.
2015: SpaceX Unveils Falcon 9 Full Thrust
In 2015, SpaceX unveiled a significantly enhanced version of its Falcon 9 rocket, known as Falcon 9 Full Thrust, boasting increased payload capacity and performance enhancements.
2015: SpaceX Launches DSCOVR on Falcon 9
In 2015, SpaceX launched the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) mission on a Falcon 9 launch vehicle. This mission demonstrated SpaceX's capabilities in supporting critical scientific missions for government agencies.
2015: ULA Restructuring
In 2015, SpaceX ended the United Launch Alliance (ULA) monopoly on U.S. military payloads by entering the market for national security launches. Faced with a potential decline in domestic military and spy launches, ULA announced a major restructuring to cut launch costs by half in an effort to win commercial satellite launch orders.
2015: Falcon 9 v1.1 Certified for National Security Space Launch
In 2015, SpaceX achieved a critical milestone when its Falcon 9 v1.1 rocket was certified for National Security Space Launch (NSSL). This certification allowed SpaceX to compete for U.S. Air Force launch contracts involving classified payloads, breaking the monopoly held by United Launch Alliance (ULA) since 2006.
2015: NASA Extends SpaceX's CRS Contract
In 2015, NASA demonstrated its confidence in SpaceX's capabilities by extending their Phase 1 CRS contract. This extension involved ordering three additional resupply flights from SpaceX, further solidifying their partnership in ensuring a continuous flow of supplies to the ISS.
2015: Starlink Development Begins
Development of the Starlink satellite internet constellation began in 2015.
2015: Construction Ramps Up at Boca Chica
Construction activities at the new Boca Chica launch facility intensified in the latter half of 2015.
January 2016: NASA Awards Second Phase of CRS Contracts
In January 2016, NASA awarded the second phase of Commercial Resupply Services (CRS) contracts, with SpaceX selected as one of the awardees. These contracts aimed to continue the delivery of essential cargo and supplies to the International Space Station (ISS) using commercially operated spacecraft.
April 2016: SpaceX Awarded First National Security Launch
In April 2016, SpaceX achieved a significant milestone by being awarded its first national security launch contract by the U.S. Air Force. This contract involved launching the second GPS III satellite and marked SpaceX's entry into the highly competitive and sensitive market of national security space launches.
April 2016: First Successful Landing on Drone Ship
In April 2016, SpaceX achieved the first successful landing on the autonomous spaceport drone ship (ASDS) 'Of Course I Still Love You'.
July 2016: SpaceX Expands to Irvine
SpaceX obtained additional office space in Irvine, California in July 2016 to concentrate on satellite communications.
September 2016: Falcon 9 Explosion During Propellant Fill Operation
A Falcon 9 exploded during a propellant fill operation for a pre-launch test in September 2016, destroying the AMOS-6 communications satellite. The explosion was caused by solidified liquid oxygen igniting with carbon composite helium vessels.
October 2016: SpaceX Offers Price Discount for Reused Falcon 9 First Stage
Following the successful landings, SpaceX offered customers a 10% price discount for using a reused Falcon 9 first stage in October 2016.
2016: NASA Extends CRS Contracts
In 2016, NASA extended the Phase 1 CRS contracts, including SpaceX's contract, signaling continued confidence in the company's ability to provide reliable cargo delivery services to the ISS.
2016: Falcon 9 Experiences Pre-Flight Failure During Static Fire Test
In 2016, SpaceX encountered a setback when a Falcon 9 rocket experienced a pre-flight failure during a static fire test, highlighting the inherent challenges and risks associated with space exploration.
2016: SpaceX Begins Test-Firing Raptor Engines, Powering Its Next-Generation Launch System
In late 2016, SpaceX commenced test-firing its Raptor engines, designed to power the first and second stages of the Starship launch system, marking a crucial step in the development of its next-generation launch capabilities.
2016: Alleged Misconduct by Musk
In 2016, Elon Musk allegedly engaged in sexual misconduct with a SpaceX flight attendant, as reported in a Business Insider article in May 2022.
January 2017: SpaceX Returns to Flight After Four-Month Hiatus
SpaceX returned to flight in January 2017 after a four-month hiatus following the Falcon 9 explosion.
January 2017: SpaceX Acquires Second Satellite Facility
SpaceX acquired a second satellite facility in Redmond, Washington in January 2017, which became a research and development laboratory for satellites.
March 2017: SpaceX Launches Reused Falcon 9 for SES-10 Satellite
In March 2017, SpaceX launched a returned Falcon 9 for the SES-10 satellite, marking the first relaunch of a payload-carrying orbital rocket.
May 2017: First NRO Launch with SpaceX
On May 1, 2017, the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) conducted its first launch with SpaceX, further expanding the company's portfolio of government customers and demonstrating its capabilities in supporting highly sensitive national security missions.
July 2017: SpaceX Raises $350 Million
SpaceX raised $350 million in July 2017, increasing its valuation to $21 billion.
2017: SpaceX Forms The Boring Company Subsidiary
SpaceX formed a subsidiary called The Boring Company in 2017 and began constructing a test tunnel near SpaceX headquarters.
2017: First Annual Hyperloop Competition
SpaceX held its first annual Hyperloop competition in 2017.
2017: Initial Prototype Test-Flight Satellites Launched
Initial Starlink prototype test-flight satellites were launched in 2017 as part of the SpaceX Paz satellite mission.
2017: SpaceX Awarded $2.6 Billion for Crew Dragon Certification
In 2017, SpaceX was awarded a substantial $2.6 billion contract to complete the development and certification of its Crew Dragon spacecraft. This contract highlighted the significance of SpaceX's role in enabling crewed missions to the ISS and marked a significant investment in the company's capabilities.
2017: Congressional Testimony on Cost Efficiency
In 2017, SpaceX testified before Congress that NASA's Space Act Agreement, which set high-level requirements but left details to industry, enabled SpaceX to develop the Falcon 9 rocket at a significantly lower cost. SpaceX's total development cost for Falcon 9, including Falcon 1, was $390 million, compared to NASA's estimate of $4 billion using traditional processes.
2017: SpaceX Aims to Revolutionize Space Travel with Starship, a Fully Reusable Launch System
In 2017, SpaceX announced its ambitious plan to develop Starship, a fully reusable super-heavy lift launch system, designed to eventually replace the company's existing launch vehicles and revolutionize space travel.
February 2018: Falcon Heavy Completes Inaugural Mission, Launching Tesla Roadster into Space
On February 6, 2018, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy rocket successfully completed its inaugural mission, launching Elon Musk's personal Tesla Roadster into a heliocentric orbit, marking a historic moment for the company's heavy-lift launch capabilities.
March 2018: SpaceX Becomes Leading Global Commercial Launch Provider
By March 2018, SpaceX had over 100 launches on its manifest, representing approximately $12 billion in contract revenue, making it the leading global commercial launch provider.
March 2018: SpaceX Awarded $290 Million for Three GPS III Satellite Launches
In March 2018, SpaceX secured a $290 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to launch an additional three GPS III satellites. This contract solidified SpaceX's position as a key provider of launch services for national security space assets.
May 2018: Completion of The Boring Company Test Tunnel
The Boring Company completed its short test tunnel in May 2018.
July 2018: SpaceX Assists in Thai Cave Rescue
In July 2018, SpaceX engineers built a mini-submarine to aid in the rescue of children trapped in a flooded cave in Thailand. While not ultimately used in the rescue, the effort demonstrated the company's commitment to using its expertise for humanitarian purposes.
December 2018: The Boring Company Test Tunnel Opens to the Public
The Boring Company's test tunnel opened to the public in December 2018.
2018: SpaceX Secures Contracts Worth Over $12 Billion
By 2018, SpaceX had secured numerous contracts, including demonstration and supply contracts from NASA for the International Space Station and certification for U.S. military launches. The company had around thirty missions scheduled for that year, with contracts totaling over $12 billion.
2018: SpaceX Introduces Falcon 9 Block 5, Marking a New Chapter
In 2018, SpaceX introduced the Falcon 9 Block 5, marking a significant milestone in the rocket's evolution and representing the final major iteration of the Falcon 9 design, emphasizing reusability and reliability.
January 2019: SpaceX Announces Layoffs and Starship Project
In January 2019, SpaceX announced it would lay off 10% of its workforce to fund the Starship and Starlink projects. The Starship vehicle aims to enable large-scale transportation of humans and cargo to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
February 2019: SpaceX Awarded $297 Million for Three National Security Missions
In February 2019, SpaceX was awarded a $297 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to launch three more national security missions. These missions were scheduled to launch no earlier than FY 2021, highlighting SpaceX's growing role in supporting national security objectives.
May 2019: SpaceX Valuation Reaches $33.3 Billion
By May 2019, SpaceX's valuation had risen to $33.3 billion after multiple funding rounds.
May 2019: SpaceX Launches First Batch of Starlink Satellites
SpaceX launched the first 60 Starlink satellites in May 2019 aboard a Falcon 9 rocket.
May 2019: SpaceX Launches First Large Batch of Starlink Satellites
In May 2019, SpaceX initiated the deployment of its Starlink satellite constellation by launching the first batch of 60 satellites.
June 2019: SpaceX Launches STP-2 Mission on Falcon Heavy
On June 25, 2019, SpaceX successfully launched the Space Test Program 2 (STP-2) mission using its powerful Falcon Heavy rocket. This mission served as a demonstration of Falcon Heavy's capabilities for complex and demanding national security space missions.
2019: SpaceX Conducts Uncrewed Crew Dragon Test Flight
In early 2019, SpaceX successfully conducted a full uncrewed test flight of its Crew Dragon spacecraft. This test flight involved docking with the ISS and subsequently splashing down in the Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating the spacecraft's capabilities in preparation for crewed missions.
2019: SpaceX Raises Over $6 Billion in Equity Financing
By 2021, SpaceX had raised more than $6 billion in equity financing since 2019, largely used to support Starlink and Starship development.
2019: Raptor Engine Makes its Debut, Powering Starhopper Test Vehicle
In 2019, SpaceX's Raptor engine took its first flight, propelling the Starhopper test vehicle to an altitude of 20 meters (66 feet), demonstrating its capabilities and paving the way for further development.
2019: First Suborbital Launches from Boca Chica
SpaceX conducted its first suborbital launches from the Boca Chica facility in 2019.
2019: Launch Pad 39A Prepared for Starship Launches
Preparations began in 2019 to adapt Launch Pad 39A for Starship launches.
2019: Dragon 2 Conducts First Uncrewed and Crewed Flights
In early 2019, the Dragon 2 spacecraft completed its first uncrewed flight to the International Space Station. This was followed by a crewed flight in 2020.
January 2020: SpaceX Conducts In-Flight Abort Test
In January 2020, SpaceX conducted a critical in-flight abort test of its Crew Dragon spacecraft. This test, the last before crewed flights, simulated an abort scenario during flight, with the Dragon spacecraft successfully firing its launch escape engines.
January 2020: Starlink Becomes Largest Satellite Constellation
In January 2020, SpaceX's Starlink became the world's largest satellite constellation.
March 2020: SpaceX to Develop Dragon XL for Lunar Gateway
In March 2020, NASA awarded SpaceX a contract to develop the Dragon XL spacecraft, specifically designed to transport supplies to the Lunar Gateway space station. This spacecraft will be launched using the powerful Falcon Heavy rocket, highlighting SpaceX's expanding role in lunar exploration.
March 2020: SpaceX Unveils Dragon XL
In March 2020, SpaceX announced the Dragon XL, a spacecraft designed to resupply NASA's planned Lunar Gateway space station.
March 2020: SpaceX Valuation Reaches $36 Billion
SpaceX's valuation reached $36 billion by March 2020.
April 2020: Final Dragon 1 Mission and Retirement
In April 2020, the final Dragon 1 mission, SpaceX CRS-20, departed from the ISS, marking the end of an era for this version of the spacecraft. Dragon 1 was subsequently retired from service, making way for the upgraded Dragon 2.
May 2020: First Crewed Mission from Launch Pad 39A
SpaceX launched its inaugural crewed mission to the International Space Station from Launch Pad 39A on May 30, 2020.
May 2020: SpaceX Crew Dragon Demo-2 Mission Launch
On May 30, 2020, SpaceX launched its historic Crew Dragon Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station. This mission carried NASA astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley, marking the first time a crewed vehicle had launched from the U.S. since 2011 and the first SpaceX commercial crewed launch to the ISS.
May 2020: NASA's Investment in SpaceX
In May 2020, NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine noted that NASA's investments in SpaceX had significantly boosted the United States' share of the commercial launch market to 70%, a major improvement since 2012 when there were no commercial launches from the country.
May 2020: SpaceX Launches NASA Astronauts to the ISS, Marking Historic Milestone
In May 2020, SpaceX made history by launching two NASA astronauts, Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken, to the International Space Station (ISS) on a Crew Dragon spacecraft. This marked SpaceX as the first private company to achieve this feat and the first crewed orbital launch from the US in nine years.
June 2020: SpaceX Launches Third GPS III Satellite
On June 20, 2020, SpaceX successfully launched the third GPS III satellite for the U.S. Air Force. This launch demonstrated SpaceX's continued reliability in supporting critical national security space missions.
August 2020: SpaceX Awarded U.S. Space Force NSSL Contract
In August 2020, SpaceX secured a significant contract from the U.S. Space Force for National Security Space Launch (NSSL) services over the following 5-7 years. This contract, valued at $316 million for one launch, granted SpaceX a substantial share of the U.S. military's satellite launch requirements during that period, further solidifying its position as a leading provider of launch services for national security space assets.
August 2020: SpaceX Valuation Increases to $46 Billion After Funding Round
On August 19, 2020, SpaceX's valuation increased to $46 billion following a $1.9 billion funding round, one of the largest for a privately held company.
November 2020: SpaceX Crew-1 Mission Launch
On November 16, 2020, SpaceX successfully launched its Crew-1 mission to the International Space Station. This mission carried NASA astronauts Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, and Shannon Walker, along with JAXA astronaut Soichi Noguchi, all members of the Expedition 64 crew.
December 2020: First Cargo Variant of Dragon 2 Flies
In December 2020, the cargo variant of the Dragon 2 spacecraft made its first flight to resupply the International Space Station as part of the CRS contract with NASA.
2020: Initial Starlink Constellation Testing Begins
Testing of the Starlink constellation started in late 2020.
2020: SpaceX Launches COVID-19 Antibody-Testing Program
SpaceX initiated a COVID-19 antibody-testing program involving its employees in 2020, leading to a scientific paper suggesting that a certain level of COVID-19 antibodies may offer long-term protection.
February 2021: SpaceX Raises $1.61 Billion, Valuation Reaches $74 Billion
In February 2021, SpaceX raised an additional $1.61 billion, bringing the company's valuation to approximately $74 billion.
April 2021: SpaceX Crew-2 Mission Launch and Docking
On April 23, 2021, SpaceX launched its Crew-2 mission to the International Space Station, carrying NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and K. Megan McArthur, JAXA astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, and ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet. The mission successfully docked with the ISS on April 24, 2021.
April 2021: SpaceX Starship HLS Selected for NASA's Artemis Program
SpaceX's Starship HLS was awarded a contract on April 16, 2021, to play a key role in NASA's Artemis program.
July 2021: SpaceX Acquires Swarm Technologies to Enhance IoT Communications
On July 16, 2021, SpaceX acquired Swarm Technologies for $524 million. Swarm Technologies is a private company specializing in building a low Earth orbit satellite constellation designed for communication with Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
July 2021: SpaceX Unveils New Drone Ship 'A Shortfall of Gravitas'
SpaceX revealed a new drone ship named 'A Shortfall of Gravitas' in July 2021.
August 2021: First Booster Landing on 'A Shortfall of Gravitas'
A booster from the CRS-23 mission landed on the 'A Shortfall of Gravitas' drone ship for the first time on August 29, 2021.
October 2021: SpaceX Valuation Surpasses $100 Billion
SpaceX's valuation rose to $100.3 billion by October 2021.
December 2021: SpaceX Announces Carbon Dioxide Removal Program
Elon Musk announced SpaceX's carbon dioxide removal program in December 2021, aiming to convert captured carbon into rocket fuel.
December 2021: Sexual Harassment Claims
In December 2021, claims of workplace sexual harassment by five former SpaceX employees were published. The complaints included unwanted advances and a culture of harassment that went largely unaddressed by executives and HR.
2021: SpaceX to Handle 40% of U.S. Military Satellite Launches
As part of the NSSL contract awarded in August 2020, SpaceX is slated to handle 40% of the U.S. military's satellite launch requirements over the following 5-7 years, starting no earlier than FY 2021. This signifies a major commitment from the U.S. military to SpaceX's capabilities and highlights the company's increasing importance in national security space operations.
2021: SpaceX Inspiration4 Mission Launch
In 2021, SpaceX launched its first all-civilian mission to space, Inspiration4, on behalf of Shift4 Payments CEO Jared Isaacman. The mission launched from Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A atop a Falcon 9 rocket, sent the Crew Dragon Resilience into low Earth orbit, and concluded successfully with a splashdown in the Atlantic Ocean three days later.
2021: Spy Satellite Network Contract Signed
In 2021, SpaceX signed a $1.8-billion contract with the National Reconnaissance Office to build a network of hundreds of spy satellites. This was reported by Reuters in March 2024.
2021: Starlink Begins Taking Orders
Starlink began accepting orders for its internet service in early 2021.
May 2022: Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against Elon Musk
In May 2022, a Business Insider article alleged that Elon Musk engaged in sexual misconduct with a SpaceX flight attendant in 2016. Following the allegations, some employees drafted an open letter condemning Musk's Twitter behavior and calling for clearer enforcement of company policies. Gwynne Shotwell later announced that those involved with the letter had been terminated.
August 2022: European Space Agency Considers SpaceX Launchers
In August 2022, the European Space Agency began discussions with SpaceX regarding the potential use of its launchers, considering Russia's blockage of Soyuz rockets due to the Ukraine invasion.
November 2022: Executive Moves at Starbase
In November 2022, SpaceX announced that COO Gwynne Shotwell and VP Mark Juncosa would oversee Starbase, its Texas launch facility, alongside Omead Afshar from Tesla. Shyamal Patel, previously at Starbase, shifted to Cape Canaveral. CNBC reported that these moves highlighted the company's urgency to get Starship flying.
December 2022: SpaceX Announces Starshield Program
In December 2022, SpaceX introduced Starshield, a program designed to incorporate military or government payloads onto Starlink-derived satellite buses.
December 2022: Starlink Reaches Over 1 Million Subscribers
In December 2022, Starlink exceeded 1 million subscribers globally.
December 2022: FCC Approves Expansion of SpaceX's Starlink Satellite Network
In December 2022, the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted SpaceX approval to launch up to 7,500 next-generation Starlink satellites, further expanding its internet network.
2022: 39A Starship Preparation Accelerated
Due to delays in obtaining FAA launch permits for Boca Chica, Texas, the preparation of Launch Pad 39A for Starship launches was expedited in 2022.
2022: Falcon 9 Sets Launch Record
SpaceX's Falcon 9 set a world record in 2022 for the highest number of launches of a single vehicle type in a year, with 61 launches.
2022: SpaceX Focuses on Expanding Starlink Satellite Constellation
Throughout 2022, SpaceX prioritized expanding its Starlink constellation, launching numerous batches of internet-beaming satellites, resulting in over 6,000 satellites in orbit.
2022: SpaceX Achieves High Launch Frequency
Within the first 130 days of 2022, SpaceX conducted 18 rocket launches and two astronaut splashdowns, demonstrating a high launch cadence.
2022: SpaceX Valuation Reaches $127 Billion
A new round of financing in 2022 valued SpaceX at $127 billion.
April 2023: Starship's First Flight
Starship, SpaceX's super heavy-lift launch system, achieved its first flight in April 2023, becoming the largest and most powerful rocket ever flown.
April 2023: Starship's First Orbital Flight Test Ends in Mid-Air Explosion
On April 20, 2023, Starship's first orbital flight test ended in a mid-air explosion over the Gulf of Mexico. Multiple engine failures in the booster led to a loss of control, triggering the automated flight termination system. Despite the explosion, the test was deemed a success by Elon Musk and industry experts.
October 2023: SpaceX Ready for Next Starship Launch, Delays Blamed on Regulators
In October 2023, a SpaceX executive revealed the company was ready for another Starship launch since September but faced delays attributed to government regulators. Concerns were raised that these delays could allow China to outpace US astronauts in returning to the Moon.
November 2023: Starship's Second Flight Reaches Space
In November 2023, Starship reached space on its second flight.
November 2023: SpaceX Launches Second Starship Test, Vehicles Explode After Brief Flight
On November 18, 2023, SpaceX conducted its second integrated Starship test. Both the booster and the Starship flew for a short duration before exploding separately.
November 2023: SpaceX Acquires Pioneer Aerospace
SpaceX announced the acquisition of its parachute supplier, Pioneer Aerospace, out of bankruptcy for $2.2 million in November 2023.
December 2023: SpaceX Valuation Reaches $180 Billion
By December 2023, SpaceX had achieved a valuation of approximately $180 billion.
2023: Orbital Launches Commence from Boca Chica
Orbital launches from the Boca Chica facility were initiated in 2023.
March 2024: Spy Satellite Network Contract
In March 2024, Reuters reported that SpaceX is constructing a network of hundreds of spy satellites as part of a $1.8-billion contract with the National Reconnaissance Office signed in 2021. This network is designed to operate as a swarm in low orbits.
March 2024: SpaceX Achieves Suborbital Trajectory with Starship, Booster Malfunctions During Landing
In March 2024, SpaceX launched its third Starship test, successfully achieving the planned suborbital trajectory for the first time. However, the booster experienced a malfunction shortly before landing, and the Starship was lost during reentry over the Indian Ocean.
April 2024: Starlink Reaches 6,000 Satellites
By April 2024, Starlink had grown to over 6,000 satellites in orbit.
May 2024: Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy Reach 345 Launches, Demonstrating Reliability and Success
As of May 18, 2024, SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets have achieved an impressive track record with 345 launches, showcasing their reliability and success with 343 full mission successes, one partial success, and one in-flight failure.
2024: Launch Complex 39A Becomes Sole Falcon Heavy Launch Pad
As of 2024, Launch Complex 39A is the only pad capable of supporting Falcon Heavy launches.
2024: Rideshare and Bandwagon Programs
As of 2024, SpaceX operates Rideshare and Bandwagon (mid inclination) programs. These programs provide additional competition for small satellite launchers.
2024: SpaceX Unveils New Spacesuit for Extravehicular Activity
On May 4th, 2024, SpaceX revealed a new spacesuit designed for spacewalks, to be used during the Polaris Dawn mission.