What a great article. Always glad to read you, Will.

The author argues that the recent test launches, particularly the seventh launch which ended in disintegration over the Turks and Caicos, highlight significant issues with the spacecraft's development and performance.

Key points from the article include:

Failed Test Launches: The Starship's inability to reach orbit during its test launches raises concerns about its viability as a next-generation spacecraft. The author notes that while failures are common in rocket development, the scale of these failures at this stage is alarming.

Performance Issues: There are claims that Starship is not meeting its promised specifications. The article suggests that SpaceX should be focusing on optimizing the vehicle rather than merely attempting to keep it operational.

Engine Problems: A critical issue mentioned is with Starship's engines, which Elon Musk has acknowledged limit the spacecraft's payload capacity to only "40–50 tons to orbit." This performance is contrasted unfavorably with older rocket technologies.

Competitive Landscape: The piece also points out that SpaceX's competitors are rapidly advancing, potentially outpacing Starship in capabilities.

The overall tone of the article is critical, suggesting that SpaceX's ambitious goals for Starship may be increasingly out of reach given its current trajectory and technological setbacks.