Elon Musk's affinity for the number 42 stems from its significance in Douglas Adams' The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, where 42 is humorously proposed as the answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything.
Musk, a fan of science fiction and Adams' work, has referenced this in various contexts. For example, he named SpaceX's Starship test vehicle "SN42" (Serial Number 42) and has mentioned 42 in interviews and X posts as a nod to the book's philosophical and comedic take on finding meaning in the universe.
It resonates with his curiosity about existence and his playful approach to big ideas. The number 42 represents the intersection of humor, philosophy, and the quest for understanding our place in the cosmos.