What now for SpaceX's Mars-bound Telsa Roadster?

[SCantiGOP]

3. Not if you look at the science behind it

This was not a publicity stunt, it was the test firing of a totally new rocket that may be used as a core of future space programs. Test firings of new rockets always carry a payload to simulate a satellite load. Often it is just a block of metal; the important thing is to have the weight. So the car served that purpose.

Why did profit-making companies pay $1/2 million for a 30 second commercial during the Super Bowl? They obviously felt the expense was worth the publicity. Musk received publicity for Space-X that he couldn't have purchased for a billion dollars. Since he was bearing the cost what is the problem?

As has been pointed out, Musk did not do this to make money; rather, he has made money so he could do this. Space exploration is his passion. I applaud him and celebrate his major technological feat that will benefit all of humanity.