Elon Musk’s ambitious words: “It can be done”
Musk expressed optimism that humanity can set up a permanent presence on Mars by 2055. He explained that success depends on ramping up the tonnage of cargo delivered during each launch window, which occurs every 26 months when Earth and Mars align. To build a truly self-sufficient colony, Musk stressed that settlers will need everything from advanced robotics and food production systems to the ability to manufacture fuel and high-tech components directly on the Martian surface.
The centerpiece of Musk’s vision is Starship, SpaceX’s fully reusable launch system. The vehicle comprises two stages—Super Heavy, the booster, and Starship, the spacecraft—both powered by methane-fueled Raptor engines. This design allows Mars settlers to produce fuel from the Martian atmosphere, enabling return trips. Starship has already completed ten test flights, with its most recent success in August 2025 marking its first payload deployment. Musk revealed that the upcoming Version 3 of Starship will carry over 100 tons to orbit, making it capable of transporting the vast supplies required for colonization.
