United States Announces Plans to Beat China in Returning Astronauts to the Moon
The United States has declared its intention to land astronauts on the Moon ahead of China, as stated by Bill Nelson, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), during a hearing with the House of Representatives' budget committee, according to reports from TASZSZ by eadaily.com.
Nelson mentioned that this step is deemed necessary due to fears of the militarization of space amid the rivalry between the USA and China, particularly concerning lunar exploration.
In response to a related inquiry, Nelson remarked on the Artemis mission, an American lunar program designed to land astronauts on the Moon's South Pole. The objective is to understand how humans can survive in this hostile environment, paving the way for future manned missions to Mars. While acknowledging China's significant achievements in space exploration, especially over the past decade, Nelson pointed out that "very little is known" about these accomplishments.
"We believe that what they claim to be a peaceful space program has many aspects of military nature. And I think it puts us in competition," Nelson stated.
He highlighted that China has openly announced its goal to send taikonauts to the Moon by 2030, although he noted that their timelines are continually being adjusted.
"Our task is to get there first and undertake peaceful exploration efforts," Nelson continued.
He expressed concern that "China might get there first and suddenly declare: This territory is now mine, keep out."
According to Nelson, such actions would not reflect the peaceful use of space.
"Of course, overlaps must be avoided. But you can't suddenly claim the entire area as yours," Nelson added, drawing a parallel with China's actions in the dispute over the Nansha (Spratly) Islands in the South China Sea.