Space / Technology · 9 min read
Musk's SpaceX–xAI Merger Is Hemorrhaging Talent
Since the controversial consolidation of SpaceX and xAI under a single corporate umbrella, 47+ senior engineers, researchers, and executives have quietly walked out — and insiders say the exit rate shows no sign of slowing.
Key Facts
- 47+ senior staff departed since the merger closed 9 months ago
- Average tenure of departed staff: 6.4 years
- 112 senior roles remain unfilled for more than 90 days
- Glassdoor rating has fallen by 1.3 points post-merger
- 19 rocket engineering, 14 AI research, 9 Starlink, 5 leadership departures documented
"The moment the merger was announced, you could feel the room change. Not excitement — dread." — Senior Propulsion Engineer, SpaceX (departed March 2026)