SpaceXAI has seen more than 50 researchers and engineers responsible for artificial intelligence development leave the company since February 2026, including core pre-training staff and key leaders in coding, world models, and the Grok voice model [1, 2].
The departures followed SpaceX’s acquisition of xAI in February, after which merged leadership was installed [1, 2]. Elon Musk renamed the combined entity SpaceXAI earlier this month [1].
The exodus includes all xAI co-founders except Musk himself, and spans resignations, layoffs, and dismissals [2]. Eleven former xAI employees have joined Meta, while at least seven have moved to Thinking Machine Labs [1].
Sources differ on the nature of the departures. One view suggests most left voluntarily, citing Musk’s demanding work culture with extreme pressure and unrealistic deadlines as a factor, as well as employees cashing out stock options ahead of a potential SpaceX IPO [1]. Another says the departures include layoffs and dismissals along with resignations [2].
The departures represent a significant challenge for SpaceXAI as it integrates its AI and space ambitions. Key talent driving AI capabilities has exited during the first months under new leadership.
SpaceX acquired xAI and installed new joint leadership in February 2026, and Musk rebranded the combined company as SpaceXAI in May 2026 [1, 2]. The company’s next key step will likely revolve around solidifying its workforce after this wave of departures.
