Starbase: SpaceX's New City in Texas

The site in South Texas, home to Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX, is now a bona fide city with the cosmic title of Starbase.

During a Saturday vote, residents, most of whom work for SpaceX, overwhelmingly endorsed the formal establishment of Starbase. The final count was 212 in support, while only 6 were opposed, as reported by the Cameron County Elections Department.

Elon Musk enthusiastically shared news of the city’s official status via a post on his social media platform, X, declaring, 'It is now a real city!'

Starbase serves as the operational hub and launch area for SpaceX’s innovative rocket program, which collaborates with NASA and the Department of Defense on missions aiming to return humans to the moon and eventually land on Mars.

Musk initially mentioned the concept of Starbase in 2021, and its formal approval was largely anticipated. The region holds 283 eligible voters, the majority of whom are presumed to be Starbase staff.

For Musk, the approval is a significant triumph, further noticeable amidst his expanding public profile and the successes of his ventures, including Tesla.

SpaceX has gained considerable support from local officials, attributed to the economic benefits and employment opportunities it brings to the area.

However, the establishment of Starbase has not been without dissent, as critics express concerns over Musk consolidating influence in the region, potentially impacting public accessibility to nearby natural attractions.

Related legislative efforts have been introduced, proposing to transfer authority from county officials to the new city’s government concerning beach and park closures for launches.

These developments coincide with SpaceX’s petition to increase South Texas launches from five annually to 25, pending federal consent.

Sitting near the U.S.-Mexico border, the city of Starbase encompasses approximately 1.5 square miles marked by a sparse network of roads and modest housing.

The motives behind the establishment of a company-controlled town remain unspecified by SpaceX, who did not provide comment on the matter.

In 2024, Starbase General Manager Kathryn Lueders communicated the need to develop Starbase as a fully functioning community, managed by SpaceX, highlighting its role in providing essential services to residents.

SpaceX representatives have informed lawmakers that having the city control beach access would facilitate more efficient launch operations.

Opponents argue that decisions regarding the beach should remain with the county government, which serves a broader constituency.

A legislative proposal has been introduced making noncompliance with beach evacuation orders punishable by up to 180 days in jail.

The South Texas Environmental Justice Network has organized demonstrations against the city’s creation and the potential limitations on beach access, indicating ongoing public concern about the changes.

Residents like Josette Hinojosa are adamant about preserving unrestricted access to the beaches their families have visited for generations.

Christopher Basaldú, a local organizer and member of the indigenous Carrizo/Comecrudo Nation, underscores the cultural and historical significance of the land now integrated into Starbase.