SpaceX's Starship Moon Lander Likely to Face More Delays

A new government audit from NASA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) indicates that SpaceX’s Starship lunar lander is likely to encounter further delays. The report highlights unresolved technical challenges and scheduling issues for the vehicle, which is critical to NASA’s Artemis program. The OIG noted that the planned 2028 moon landing is not guaranteed and remains subject to change.

SpaceX had originally aimed for a June 2027 moon landing before the deadline was pushed to 2028. However, the OIG found that the company has yet to receive a critical design review, scheduled for August 2026. This delay raises concerns about the feasibility of meeting the revised timeline.

The biggest hurdle for Starship is the ability to refuel in orbit, a requirement for reaching the moon. The OIG described the refueling process as one of the most technically challenging aspects of the mission. This operation has not been tested in a vehicle-to-vehicle capacity before.

What Are the Key Technical and Scheduling Issues?

The report highlights that SpaceX has postponed a major design review until August, reducing the time available to address potential issues. This review is necessary to confirm whether the company can proceed with the construction of the vehicle that will carry astronauts to the moon according to the OIG.

The OIG also pointed to missed opportunities to reduce risk in the design and testing of the lander. If problems arise with the lander, NASA has limited options for recovery. The agency does not have the capability to rescue astronauts in an emergency on the lunar surface or in space.

What Is the Broader Impact on the Artemis Program?

The Artemis program aims to return humans to the moon by 2028. NASA has invested nearly $7 billion in the Human Landing System program since 2019, with projected spending reaching over $18 billion by 2030. The OIG found that while costs for the lander contracts have been well-controlled, schedule delays threaten the timeline.

NASA recently announced a new test mission for 2027, involving a crewed docking with one or both of the lunar landers in Earth orbit. This mission is intended to practice procedures before the actual moon landing in 2028.

What Are the Challenges for Blue Origin’s Lander?

Rival company Blue Origin is also developing a lunar lander under the Artemis program. The OIG found that Blue Origin is experiencing delays of at least eight months and has not resolved several design flaws. Both companies are under pressure to accelerate development, but the feasibility of their plans has yet to be determined.

NASA has not publicly shared the acceleration plans put forward by SpaceX and Blue Origin. The OIG noted that these plans could affect costs and timelines, but their impact remains unclear.

What Actions Is NASA Taking to Mitigate the Risks?

NASA’s acting associate administrator for exploration systems development, Lori Glaze, stated that the agency is implementing mitigation measures. These include increased collaboration with experts and lessons learned from previous projects.

NASA also agreed with most of the OIG’s recommendations to improve the lunar lander program. The agency is working closely with both SpaceX and Blue Origin to manage development risks and ensure that the landers meet safety requirements.

What Are the Next Steps for the Artemis Program?

Both SpaceX and Blue Origin are working to finalize their lunar lander designs. The August 2026 design review is a key milestone for SpaceX. If the review is positive, the company can move forward with construction.

The Artemis program remains a top priority for NASA. Despite the delays, the agency is committed to meeting the 2028 moon landing goal. The upcoming test mission in 2027 is expected to play a crucial role in preparing for the actual landing.

NASA has not yet revealed detailed plans for how it will address the risks associated with the lunar landers. However, the agency has stated that it is actively monitoring progress and implementing measures to minimize further delays.