SpaceX, the rocket company owned by Elon Musk, is making big waves in the world of space exploration. Why? It's about to launch one of India’s most advanced satellites into space – a $60 to $70 million mission that is the first of many future deals between SpaceX and India’s space agency, ISRO.

But there's more to this story than just a rocket launch. Behind the deal lies a web of political connections, powerful friendships, and a fascinating rivalry in space technology. So, let’s break ...