Space Dreams and Billion-Dollar Schemes: McCaleb’s Galactic Gambit!

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Oh, darling, gather ’round! Chris Larsen, the illustrious executive chairman of Ripple, has taken a moment from his busy schedule of blockchain wizardry to shower praise upon his fellow co-founder, Jed McCaleb. He’s described McCaleb’s space escapades as “big” and “bold”—a bit like a soufflé that’s risen too high, wouldn’t you say? 🎩✨

“America used to chase new frontiers like this before it tripped over its own bureaucracy and fell into a pit of doubt,” Larsen quipped, perhaps while sipping a martini and contemplating the cosmos. 🍸

Now, let’s talk about Vast, McCaleb’s aerospace startup, which is currently crafting a commercial space station named “Haven-1.” Yes, you heard that right! Construction began earlier this year, and it promises a whopping 1,600 cubic feet of habitable space—perfect for those who find Earth a tad too cramped! 🚀

Four astronauts are slated to hitch a ride to this celestial abode aboard a Falcon 9 rocket. McCaleb’s grand ambition? To snag a colossal NASA contract to launch this floating paradise. And all this, mind you, with a resume that’s as thin as a wafer! But fear not, for Vast has the delightful advantage of cozying up to SpaceX and McCaleb’s willingness to throw around his billions like confetti at a New Year’s bash. 🎉

Speaking of billions, our dear McCaleb, who pocketed over $3 billion with XRP and Ripple, is prepared to gamble a staggering $1 billion on this audacious venture. Talk about a high-stakes poker game! 🃏

As NASA prepares to retire the International Space Station (ISS) in 2030—after three decades of research and the occasional space selfie—they’re teaming up with private companies to launch its replacements. One can only hope they come with a complimentary space butler! 🤖

Let’s not forget, McCaleb co-founded Ripple with Larsen back in 2012, only to exit stage left the following year due to a difference of opinion. A classic tale of creative differences, if ever there was one! 🎭

And in a recent tête-à-tête with Bloomberg, McCaleb defended his XRP sales, insisting he wasn’t out to harm investors. A noble sentiment, indeed! But one must wonder, is he more of a space pioneer or a financial juggler? Only time will tell! ⏳

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2025-03-21 23:35