Musk's starring role in Trump adminsitration confirmed by inauguration proceedings - and pledge to go to Mars
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Elon Musk's starring role in the new Donald Trump administration was confirmed as he appeared front and centre of his inauguration proceedings - and witnessed him pledge a mission to Mars. Musk sat behind members of the Trump family for Monday's ceremony, grinning and pumping his fists as the president declared he would "pursue our manifest destiny into the stars".
The SpaceX chief executive appeared elated as Mr Trump promised to "launch American astronauts who plant the Stars and Stripes on the planet Mars" - a longtime personal ambition of the billionaire's. Follow live: Trump returns to power. Giving his own speech at a rally shortly after the taking of the oath, he heaped praise on the president.
He hailed a coming of a new "golden age" for the United States, telling supporters at Washington DC's Capital One Arena: "It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured.". Seemingly unable to contain his excitement, he said: "Man I can't wait. This is going to be fantastic.".
Musk, who is the wealthiest person on the planet, also posted on his social media platform X to praise Mr Trump, writing simply: "The Return of the King.". Read moreTrump 2.0 inauguration in picturesNational emergency at border among executive orders. The Tesla owner contributed around $200m (£162m) to the campaign to get Mr Trump elected for a second time.
