SpaceX plans to test in-space refueling of Starships in March 2025

SpaceX plans to test refueling its Starships in space starting in March 2025. This test will involve transferring propellant between two orbiting Starships, a key step toward an uncrewed lunar landing demonstration. NASA has awarded SpaceX a $4.05 billion contract for two human-rated Starships to land astronauts on the moon by September 2026. The agency is closely monitoring SpaceX's progress, which includes recent successful launches and innovative recovery methods. The approach for the Human Landing System program differs from NASA's traditional Space Launch System. SpaceX's contract allows for more flexibility, with fewer strict requirements and the ability to propose additional milestones for payment.