Starbase and its trappings is not cheap. While Elon I am sure has sunk a lot of money into the operation he still has need of infusion for a great deal of cash from others. I would think that these outside investors are by nature rich and powerful.

If SpaceX/Starbase gets shutdown or otherwise interfered with these individuals stand to loose a great deal of money. In addition I also believe they have factored in future power and profits on their investment which would not materialize….which in my opinion will be huge (as an example think Rockefeller in the early 20th century).

These folks are not to be trifled with and are used to getting their way. I cannot see them just standing around and saying “gosh”. Then there is Elon and his antics…..people laugh but the funny thing is that generally he has a plan the blindsides folks.

Anyway I would think this is not a one-sided struggle of Elon against government forces without powerful and self-interested allies. Maybe things will workout.

To refer to the outcome of the first test flight as “the mishap” seems a bit weird! Is the Boeing Starliner being held to the same process?

Ken: I repost the following comment every time someone raises the question of SpaceX fleeing the U.S.:

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Why is it the first reaction of so many people when I post stories like this is to suggest that Elon Musk flee, to run away? Not only can’t he do it (both for legal and practical reasons), it is the worst possibly reaction to this government overreach.

It is time all Americans stopped running. There really is no where else to go. We need to stand and fight, and force the government and its intolerant minions to back down. Otherwise, freedom will continue to lose ground everywhere.

I expect Musk to fight, as he has fought and won previously.

As for moving:

1. Legally he can’t. SpaceX as a rocket company falls until strict federal regulations. No matter where he moves those regulations will apply, especially because much of his work force and materials will come from the U.S.

2. Practically he can’t. The qualified workers and infrastructure doesn’t exist in these other locations. You can’t simply recreate this kind of hi-tech company in South Africa, in Mexico, or any other third world country.