Elon Musk’s company town: SpaceX employees to vote on ‘Starbase’ | Elon Musk | The Guardian
Yes, it’s official—Starbase, Texas, is now a real city. After years of speculation and buildup, voters in the tiny South Texas community have overwhelmingly approved the formation of the new city, solidifying Elon Musk’s bold vision to turn SpaceX’s launch site into something much bigger.
In a vote that wasn’t even close—212 in favor, 6 against—Starbase was born. And if you’re wondering why that name sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, you’re not alone. That’s exactly the point.
What is Starbase, Texas?
Starbase isn’t just a name. It’s the nerve center for SpaceX, the aerospace company Musk founded to build humanity’s path to Mars. Located on the southern tip of Texas near the Mexico border, Starbase is home to rocket launches, engine tests, and cutting-edge engineering designed to take us back to the Moon—and beyond.
Musk first teased the idea back in 2021, and now, in 2025, it’s reality. He shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), writing simply:
“It is now a real city!”
So, what changed? Not much for the average Texan—for now. But within the 1.5-square-mile stretch of land crisscrossed with trailers, roads, and launchpads, big things are in motion.
Why Did Elon Musk Want to Create Starbase?
Let’s break it down.
SpaceX already manages most of the operations in the area, including roads, utilities, and even schooling and medical services for employees living onsite. The new city status gives them more autonomy—and more power.
With this vote, Starbase could soon gain authority to close nearby beaches and parks, such as Boca Chica Beach and Boca Chica State Park, whenever there’s a rocket launch. This would streamline operations, something SpaceX argues is essential as it pushes for up to 25 launches per year (up from just five).
Local Support and Growing Tensions
SpaceX has undeniably brought jobs, investment, and attention to this corner of Texas. Local officials generally support the company, praising its economic contributions.
But not everyone is thrilled.
Environmental advocates and long-time residents are worried. They fear the shift of authority from county officials to a company-led city government could result in restricted public beach access, possible overreach, and environmental risks.
“Some days it’s closed, and some days you get turned away,” said local mom Josette Hinojosa, while watching her daughter build a sandcastle nearby.
Others, like indigenous leader Christopher Basaldú, point out the land’s historical and cultural significance:
“It’s not just important,” he said. “It’s sacred.”
What’s Next for Starbase?
Right now, Starbase is a small city in size—but massive in ambition. With federal contracts from NASA and the Department of Defense, and the vision to make humans a multiplanetary species, SpaceX has no plans to slow down.
Legislation is already in motion to expand Starbase’s authority, including a bill that would make it a misdemeanor to defy evacuation orders around launch times.
In short, Starbase is set to become the world’s first true company town built around space exploration—a mix of ambition, controversy, and cosmic dreams.
Key Takeaways About Starbase:
- Starbase, Texas, is now an official city, approved by a majority of local voters.
- It’s home to SpaceX’s major launch operations, aimed at the Moon and Mars.
- Elon Musk’s vision is to grow it into a fully functional space-age community.
- Critics raise concerns over beach closures and corporate control.
- The area may soon see more legislation enhancing Starbase’s legal authority.
Final Thoughts
Whether you see it as a bold step toward the future or a troubling case of corporate overreach, one thing is certain—Starbase is now on the map. And with Musk at the helm, its trajectory might just be out of this world.
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