This is rarely mentioned. Because of its design, Starship can’t just go to the Moon, it first requires orbital refueling (from other Starships). NASA estimates they would need at least 15, but that was before the Starship payload capacity was downgraded.

  • Lovely_sombrero [he/him]@hexbear.netOP
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    8 days ago

    It is actually because Elon wanted “rapid reusability”. Starships are heavier for that reason and must also leave some fuel inside in order for the first stage to land. It will be interesting to see how many Starship explode if they ever attempt to do orbital refueling.