Analysis
The quote is verbatim from Musk’s March 9, 2013, interview at SXSW, where he discussed his long-term vision for SpaceX and Mars colonization. Multiple reputable outlets, including *The Verge*, *TechCrunch*, and *CNET*, reported the line as part of his remarks. The phrasing aligns with Musk’s well-documented ambition to establish a human presence on Mars, though the statement itself is a humorous quip rather than a literal plan. No credible evidence suggests the quote was fabricated or taken out of context.
Background
Elon Musk founded SpaceX in 2002 with the stated goal of reducing space transportation costs and enabling Mars colonization. By 2013, SpaceX had already achieved milestones like the first privately funded spacecraft to reach orbit (2008) and resupply missions to the ISS (2012). The SXSW interview occurred amid growing public interest in Musk’s Mars ambitions, which he has reiterated in subsequent years, including detailed plans like the *Starship* program.
Verdict summary
Elon Musk did make this statement during a 2013 SXSW interview, and it is accurately quoted in widely documented sources.