NASA’s reliance on a single private sector partner, SpaceX, is highlighted by Elon Musk’s recent threat to decommission the Dragon spacecraft. The move would have left NASA with no choice but to rely on Russian capsules, which has been the case since the end of the space shuttle program in 2011.
Musk’s comments sparked tension between him and President Trump, who had previously supported SpaceX’s projects. However, Musk later walked back his threat, reiterating the importance of SpaceX to the American space program.
The Dragon spacecraft, which can carry up to seven passengers into orbit, is the only private spacecraft capable of returning significant amounts of cargo to Earth. It has completed 51 missions and 46 visits to the International Space Station (ISS).
NASA’s reliance on SpaceX is a result of the agency’s end of the space shuttle program in 2011. Since then, American astronauts have relied on other countries, particularly Russia, for access to space.
Russia’s Soyuz capsules are currently the only alternative option for NASA astronauts. However, each Soyuz launch carries two Russians and one NASA astronaut, whereas SpaceX launches carry only one Russian.
In 2014, NASA awarded contracts to SpaceX and Boeing to transport crews to the ISS. Although Boeing’s Starliner has faced significant setbacks, other companies like Northrop Grumman and United Launch Alliance have successfully transported cargo to the ISS and launched satellites.
The situation highlights the importance of partnerships between private companies and government agencies in space exploration.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/06/06/musk-spacex-dragon-capsule-nasa-space-station-trump