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I just did a short search for the SLS test launches, but couldn't find anything. Is this SpaceX fail fast approach to test incrementally, and SLS was just launched the first time with payload, or did I just miss the test launches of that system?

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It's a different development approach.

NASA with SLS spent a much longer time and much more money to build ONE rocket, which HAD to succeed. It uses well-established technology and pushes few boundaries.

SpaceX philosophy is to build fast, launch, and iterate on unproven, innovative ideas.

Also SpaceX is building a rocket mass production pipeline rather than a one off mostly custom unit.

Yes, a very good point. The goal is not "build a rocket". It's "build a factory for building many rockets".

The Artemis 1 launch was the first (and only) test launch of the SLS. It was successful, and yes, they launched it with expensive payload, the Orion capsule, which was also tested successfully. On the other hand, the SLS development was and is probably a lot more expensive than for Starship, while being much less technologically advanced.

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