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Elon Musk announces SpaceX partnership with LG to develop batteries that will power the Starship spacecraft heading to Mars
The race to colonize Mars took an important step forward with the partnership between SpaceX Elon Musk and LG Energy Solution, a South Korean battery giant. In a recent deal, SpaceX has tapped LG to supply specially designed batteries for its Starship rocket, which aims to carry humans and supplies to the United States. planet Red.
Why did SpaceX choose LG?
Historically, SpaceX has been self-sufficient in building its own batteries. However, with the increase in space missions and the need for more robust and reliable power for Starship launches, the company decided to seek an external solution.
LG, known for its high-performance cylindrical batteries, was a natural choice. These new lithium-ion battery modules were specifically designed to meet the much more intense and constant demand for energy for rockets.
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It's interesting to note that while SpaceX has had one-off deals with LG in the past, this is a significant step forward as it involves a long-term partnership. The financial and logistical details are still under wraps, but it's already been confirmed that these batteries will be used for both the rocket's primary and backup power systems.
What does this mean for the industry?
This deal between SpaceX and LG has far greater implications than just for the space industry. LG’s cylindrical lithium-ion batteries, like the 4695 model, have an impressive storage capacity, six times greater than previous batteries. This means greater safety and efficiency for rockets, and it also opens the door to new developments in robotics and electric vehicles.
LG is also in the midst of a major expansion. The company recently struck another deal with electric SUV maker Rivian to supply batteries for its new models. With a growing market in both the automotive and aerospace industries, LG is positioned as a key energy supplier for the future.
Looking to the future
SpaceX is making remarkable strides in its mission to make spaceflight more affordable and accessible. Last month, the company made history by successfully capturing the first stage of its Starship rocket, proving that rapid, reusable launches are possible.
With Starship set to begin operations in 2025, the use of more efficient and reliable batteries could be just the thing needed to ensure that Mars exploration missions are not only viable, but also sustainable in the long term.
While there are still many challenges ahead, such as choosing the best energy options for interplanetary missions, the partnership between SpaceX and LG is already paving the way for a new era of space exploration. After all, who would have thought that the race to Mars would also involve next-generation batteries?
Stay tuned: who knows, maybe one day Mars rovers will be powered by the same technology that’s helping SpaceX conquer space.
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