Feb 14, 2023 · SpaceX has abandoned efforts to convert two oil rigs into launch platforms for its Starship vehicle but could develop offshore platforms in the future.

Feb 15, 2023 · SpaceX will not convert two semisubmersible oil rigs into launch platforms as originally planned, and has sold the former Ensco rigs to an undisclosed party. The company bought the units back in 2020 with plans to convert the rigs into offshore launch pads for its Starship vehicle.

Jan 19, 2021 · SpaceX has acquired two former oil drilling rigs to serve as these floating spaceports. Named Phobos and Deimos, after the two moons of Mars, they are currently undergoing modifications to...

Jan 19, 2021 · Elon Musk's SpaceX bought two deepwater oil rigs last year and is converting them into floating launchpads, to support the enormous Starship rockets that the company is …

Dec 11, 2023 · The two rigs, former deepwater oil platforms Ensco 8500 and 8501, were purchased by SpaceX in 2020 for $7 million. Some preliminary work was done to clear Phobos’ deck, but the extensive modifications needed to convert them into launch platforms did not substantially progress.

Feb 16, 2023 · SpaceX has decided to abandon its plans to convert two oil rigs into offshore launch pads just weeks before the rigs were finally set to depart from Pascagoula.

Feb 15, 2023 · The space exploration company has dropped its plans to convert oil rigs into launch platforms. While the idea seemed brilliant, SpaceX has determined it does not fit into its short-term plans. However, the plan remains part of …

Jan 19, 2021 · Now, SpaceX has purchased two oil rigs to convert for this purpose, as first reported by spaceflight.com’s Michael Baylor, and confirmed by CNBC.

Feb 17, 2023 · Last year SpaceX purchased the oil rigs, named Deimos and Phobos, and placed them at ports in Brownsville, Texas and Pascagoula, Mississippi. To date, we’ve only seen updates to Phobos as its deck has been stripped down of most of its oil drilling equipment.

Sep 29, 2021 · In 2020, Lone Star Mineral Development — a SpaceX subsidiary — bought two semi-submersible oil drilling rigs, each with a $3.5 million price tag. The goal of this purchase is to refit the two rigs into floating launch paids for the Starship launch and landing system.