Elon Musk has spent years working toward humanity's future in space. Now, it is time for him to demonstrate his commitment to that future personally.

We therefore call upon SpaceX to send Elon Musk aboard the first manned Starship flight to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) — and to make his stay there permanent.

There are compelling reasons for this proposal.

First, it would demonstrate confidence in Starship. If Starship is truly the future of human spaceflight, what better way to demonstrate that confidence than by putting its most prominent advocate aboard its inaugural crewed mission?

Second, it would reduce mission complexity. A permanent LEO mission eliminates the need for a return trajectory, re-entry, landing, and all the associated hardware, fuel, and planning. This could potentially represent a significant saving.

Third, it would send a powerful message. For years, Musk has spoken of humanity becoming a multiplanetary species. Remaining permanently in orbit around Earth would represent a bold first step toward that goal.

Fourth, it would be inspirational. Future generations could look up at the night sky and know that Elon Musk is still up there.

We recognize that some may object that the word "permanent" is unnecessarily restrictive. We respectfully disagree. Space exploration requires ambition, commitment, and a willingness to accept that some journeys may have no return leg.

To be clear, this petition supports sending Elon Musk into Low Earth Orbit on the first crewed Starship flight and keeping him there indefinitely.

After all, if humanity is going to become a spacefaring civilization, someone has to start.

Sign the petition.

Send Elon Musk into permanent LEO.