A lot depends on our first launch, ... Even though I really want to launch as soon as possible, I don't want to take any chances. I'd rather be late than sorry.

that are happy to sign up as soon as they see a launch that works.

The pace of progress on Mars depends upon the pace of progress of SpaceX.

Target launch date for Falcon I maiden flight is Halloween (October 31) from our island launch complex in the Kwajalein Atoll. For potential customers out there, I should mention that Kwajalein has some of the worlds best scuba diving and snorkeling! It is literally a tropical paradise.

It's important that we attempt to extend life beyond Earth now. It is the first time in the four billion-year history of Earth that it's been possible, and that window could be open for a long time - hopefully it is - or it could be open for a short time. We should err on the side of caution and do something now.

I do love email. Wherever possible I try to communicate asynchronously. I'm really good at email.