What is the stated long-term goal driving SpaceX’s aggressive development timeline and architecture?

Making humanity multi-planetary, specifically targeting Mars.

The ultimate purpose guiding SpaceX’s resource allocation and aggressive development schedule, particularly for the Starship architecture, is existential in nature. The stated long-term focus, largely championed by its founder, is centered on ensuring the long-term survival and expansion of the human species by establishing a self-sustaining presence off-world, specifically aiming for Mars colonization. This goal contrasts sharply with NASA's primary mandate, which is weighted towards scientific discovery, solar system exploration via robotic missions, and Earth science investigation, creating a divergence in ultimate priorities.