That’s one small haul for truckers, and one giant leap for trucker-kind.
In the age of SpaceX, the spotlight often shines on astronauts, scientists, and Elon Musk himself. However, behind the scenes, a dedicated team of semi truck drivers plays a crucial role in the seamless flow of rocket launches and missions into space. These unsung heroes on the road are responsible for transporting important cargo like rocket parts, fuel, and satellite equipment across the country.
Recently, Washington Post space reporter Christian Davenport witnessed a fleet of trucks hauling propellant to a SpaceX facility.
See his video below:
A fleet of trucks out at Starbase to replenish propellant ahead of SpaceX Starship launch attempt No. 2 by @washpostnewton pic.twitter.com/GL1esw2Q0M
— Christian Davenport (@wapodavenport) April 17, 2023
Another SpaceX haul was spotted on the road this month too, as documented by Reddit user u/Spodiodie. They posted on r/Truckers a photo of nitrogen tanks being hauled on US Route 24 in Independence, Missouri.
See the photo below:
SpaceX mars mission standing on the shoulders of Truckers today.
by u/Spodiodie in Truckers
According to Primal Space, many of SpaceX’s parts and rockets are manufactured in California. However, most launches take place in Cape Canaveral, Florida. This means the space exploration corporation relies on truckers to transport their technology over 2,500 miles to get where they need to be. One of their rockets, the Falcon 9, is transported piece by piece by fleets of numerous 18-wheelers.
Watch the video from Primal Space below:
While their efforts may often go unnoticed by the general public, truckers form the backbone of countless industries across America. Whether they’re transporting rocket components for SpaceX missions or delivering essential goods to your local community, these dedicated truckers play an key role in the infrastructure of our nation.
See more photos of SpaceX Truckers on the road below: