SpaceX to Send Tesla’s Optimus Robot to Mars by 2026

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced that the company’s Starship rocket is set to carry Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus, to Mars by the end of 2026.

The mission marks a significant step in Musk’s long-term vision of interplanetary colonisation, with human missions to the Red Planet potentially starting as early as 2029.

Musk shared the ambitious timeline in a recent update, emphasising that technological advancements and successful test flights will be key to achieving this milestone.

However, SpaceX has faced setbacks in recent Starship tests, with the latest flight ending in an explosion shortly after launch due to engine malfunctions. The incident resulted in debris scattering over a vast area, raising concerns about the rocket’s readiness for deep-space missions.

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Despite these challenges, SpaceX remains committed to its Mars exploration goals. The inclusion of Optimus in the upcoming mission highlights the growing role of robotics in space exploration, with Tesla’s AI-driven bot expected to assist in early-stage tasks on Mars before human settlers arrive.

As SpaceX continues refining Starship’s capabilities, the next few years will be critical in determining the feasibility of Musk’s ambitious Mars timeline.