'How it started vs how it's going': Elon Musk shares viral post reflecting on SpaceX's journey

Elon Musk's SpaceX

Elon Musk, SpaceX’s founder, recently shared a heartfelt reflection. Posting on X, Musk celebrated the company’s progress since 2002. The post, titled “How it started vs How it’s going,” included two contrasting images. The first showed Musk in SpaceX’s early days working in a cluttered lab. The second captured the impressive launch of the Starship rocket, symbolising SpaceX’s transformation over the years.

How it started v/s How it's going pic.twitter.com/6Gema3I1Vt
DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) January 16, 2025

Progress Despite Setbacks
The reflection follows a recent SpaceX Starship test. The upgraded prototype experienced a malfunction eight minutes into flight. Despite this, the Starship programme continues making strides. On 6 June 2024, the fourth test flight saw the Super Heavy booster successfully splash down in the ocean. The Starship upper stage survived reentry, ending with a controlled splashdown.

The fifth test flight, on 13 October 2024, was another achievement. The Super Heavy booster was safely caught at the launch site. Meanwhile, the Starship upper stage completed a splashdown in the Indian Ocean. Most notably, the sixth test flight on 19 November 2024 made history. It achieved the first in-space relight of a Raptor engine.

Public Reaction and Support
Musk’s post resonated with space enthusiasts worldwide. Fans praised SpaceX’s achievements and Musk’s vision. One user commented, “So truly incredible and amazing! Such a beautiful accomplishment!”

So truly incredible and amazing!!! Such beautiful accomplishment again!! Vicki Vale21 (@Vale21Vicki) January 18, 2025

Others noted SpaceX’s steady progress, calling it “iterations towards success.”

Iterations towards success.
alpha CAPCOM (@alphacapcom) January 16, 2025

I am so impressed with SpaceX and Elon. I have been watching launches and work on the Starbases and I am amazed by everything and everyone involved in this Space program. Amazing work. Elizabeth Hoeppner (@EHoeppner31323) January 16, 2025

Musk’s reflection reminds us how far SpaceX has come. From humble beginnings, the company has redefined the possibilities of space exploration.