Yusaku Maezawa, a Japanese billionaire, has abandoned his ambitious plan to fly around the moon on SpaceX’s Starship, the most powerful rocket ever developed. This move comes after years of anticipation and planning, with Maezawa initially announcing his intentions to go on the extraordinary journey in 2018. The project, dubbed “dearMoon,” was touted as a luxury space tour, with Maezawa promising to pay for eight artists to join him on the mission.
The initial plan was to launch in 2023, but as the years went by, the mission’s schedule was pushed back due to the complexity and ongoing development of the Starship vehicle. Despite SpaceX’s efforts to test the rocket, it has experienced numerous setbacks, including two significant explosions during test flights. The uncertainty surrounding the Starship’s launch date ultimately led Maezawa to make the difficult decision to cancel the project.
In a statement posted on the “dearMoon” website, Maezawa expressed regret and apologized to those who had supported the project. He acknowledged that the lack of clear launch schedule certainty made it impossible for him to plan his future and proceeded with the cancellation. The news is likely to disappoint the individuals who were set to join Maezawa on the mission, including DJ Steve Aoki and YouTuber Tim Dodd.
Maezawa’s decision is not surprising, given the rollercoaster ride that the Starship project has been on. Despite the setbacks, SpaceX is making progress, and the rocket is expected to make its fourth test flight soon. However, the uncertainty surrounding the launch date has made it challenging for Maezawa to proceed with his plan.
Yusaku Maezawa (Via Yusaku Maezawa/Twitter)
In a social media post, Maezawa explained that he signed the contract in 2018 based on the assumption that the mission would launch by the end of 2023. However, the ongoing development process has made it difficult for him to plan his future and apologize for the disappointment this may cause. Maezawa can take solace in his previous experience as a space traveler, having spent nearly two weeks aboard the International Space Station in 2021.
The cancellation of the “dearMoon” project is a setback for Maezawa and the artists who were set to join him on the mission. However, it is also a testament to the challenges and uncertainties that come with developing complex technology. The story serves as a reminder that even the most ambitious plans can fall through due to unforeseen circumstances.
In the end, Maezawa’s decision to cancel the project is a pragmatic one, taking into account the uncertainty surrounding the Starship’s launch date. While it may be disappointing for those involved, it is also a reflection of the harsh realities of space exploration. As Maezawa himself said, “it’s a developmental project, so it is what it is.” The question now is what Maezawa will do next, and whether he will find another opportunity to venture into space.
