The space agency currently has a significant contract with SpaceX, however, it said it will carry out a “cultural assessment study” to ensure they are adhering to zero-tolerance drug policies.   

As part of its contract with NASA, SpaceX is developing spacecraft which are capable of flying astronauts to the International Space Station.   

Cultural Assessment Study 

Test flights for the Crew Dragon spacecraft are scheduled to take place in January 2019. Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft is also set for an unmanned launch in March.   

In a statement, NASA said: “In the coming months, prior to the crew test flights of Crew Dragon and Starliner, NASA will be conducting a cultural assessment study in coordination with our commercial partners to ensure the companies are meeting NASA’s requirements for workplace safety, including the adherence to a drug-free environment.   

“We fully expect our commercial partners to meet all workplace safety requirements in the execution of our missions and the services they provide the American people.

Trail Blazer

Musk currently serves as Chief Executive and Lead Designer at SpaceX, having founded the company in 2002. 

During his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience in September, Musk smoked marijuana mid-conversation with the host – which included topics such as rogue AI and space travel. It is this appearance that is believed to have prompted the review. 

NASA Administrator, Jim Bridenstine, told the Washington Post: “If I see something that’s inappropriate, the key concern to me is what is the culture that led to that inappropriateness and is NASA involved in that.” 

Bridenstine added: “Culture and leadership start at the top. Anything that would result in some questioning the culture of safety, we need to fix immediately.”  

A spokesperson for SpaceX said the company adheres to strict workplace safety protocols, adding: “We are confident that our comprehensive drug-free workforce and workforce programs exceed all applicable contractual agreements.”