On Christmas Eve, Musk’s Optimus Prime robot was shown on X (formerly Twitter) in festive attire, including Santa hats and sweaters. One of the sweaters humorously read “Silent Night, Lights” and was embellished with Tesla car designs. Tesla promoted the $30,000 robots as ideal gifts and highlighted their potential for doing household chores. “They’re growing up too fast,” Tesla joked in the post, alluding to the rapid development of humanoid robots.
Meanwhile, Musk’s space exploration company SpaceX is making progress in its plans to build Starbase in South Texas. Employees have filed a petition to incorporate the town, which would house about 500 residents, many of whom live in company dormitories. The petition suggests Gunnar Milburn, SpaceX’s safety manager, as the first mayor.
The petition outlines the need for a self-governing community, highlighting SpaceX’s existing provision of utilities, education, and medical care in the remote area. Kathryn Lueders, SpaceX’s general manager for Starbase, emphasized that incorporation would streamline infrastructure development, creating a world-class community for workers building humanity’s future in space.
However, the proposal faces scrutiny. Local environmental groups oppose frequent rocket launches, citing ecological concerns. Residents of nearby Brownsville have also raised objections, noting disruptions from road closures and restricted beach access.
If approved by Cameron County, Starbase would gain the authority to establish its own police and fire departments, issue ordinances, and qualify for state and federal grants. Supporters like resident Cayatana Polanco view Starbase as a model for future cities. “If this goes through, my baby might be the first child born in this city,” she shared, calling the prospect “epic.”
As SpaceX’s vision for Starbase unfolds, the venture reflects Musk’s ambition to redefine technology, governance, and community development on Earth and beyond.
 in festive attire, including Santa hats and sweaters. One of the sweaters humorously read “Silent Night, Lights” and was embellished with Tesla car designs. Tesla promoted the $30,000 robots as ideal gifts and highlighted their potential for doing household chores. “They’re growing […]&media=https://wonderfulengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/1-42.webp){kind=link}