In a significant development for Elon Musk’s vision of a spacefaring future, the community surrounding SpaceX’s launch site in Boca Chica, Texas, has officially been incorporated as the city of Starbase. The decision came after a decisive vote on May 3, 2025, where residents approved the incorporation by a margin of 212 to 6.
A Vision Realized
Elon Musk first proposed the idea of creating a city named Starbase in 2021, aiming to transform the area into a hub for space exploration and innovation. The newly incorporated city encompasses SpaceX’s Starship development and launch facilities and is home to approximately 500 residents, many of whom are SpaceX employees.
Musk declared on his social media platform X, celebrating the milestone.
“Starbase, Texas. It’s now a real city!”
Governance and Infrastructure
With its new status, Starbase gains the authority to elect local officials, enact ordinances, and manage municipal services. In the inaugural city elections, SpaceX Vice President Robert “Bobby” Peden was elected unopposed as mayor, alongside commissioners Jordan Buss and Jenna Petrzelka, both affiliated with SpaceX.
The incorporation allows for greater control over infrastructure development, including managing public utilities and emergency services. SpaceX has also secured a $7.5 million grant from the Texas Space Commission to support the construction of a new 380-foot “gigabay” facility, further cementing the city’s role in advancing space technology.
Community and Environmental Concerns
While the formation of Starbase has been met with enthusiasm from proponents of space exploration, it has also raised concerns among environmental groups and local communities. Critics argue that the city’s establishment may lead to restricted public access to Boca Chica Beach and impact the cultural heritage of indigenous groups in the area.
Despite these concerns, supporters highlight the potential economic benefits and job opportunities that Starbase could bring to the region. The city’s creation marks a pivotal step in Musk’s broader ambition to make humanity a multiplanetary species, with Starbase serving as a launchpad for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
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