The US is in a heated competition with China to reach the moon, amid turmoil at NASA. Two space policy experts testified before a House Committee on Science, Space and Technology subcommittee that getting to the moon is imperative, but warned of potential challenges. Dr. Scott Pace and Dan Dumbacher called for alternative approaches to achieve human exploration goals.
Their comments came as concerns over the Artemis program’s direction and employee morale at NASA grew. The witnesses stressed the need for a sustainable lunar presence, affordable solutions, and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to utilize private sector innovation. With China planning its own crewed landing by 2030, the US must act quickly to maintain its position in space leadership.
The experts emphasized the importance of repeatable and sustainable human space exploration missions, highlighting the risks of “one and done” approaches. They also raised concerns over recent actions by the Trump administration, including job terminations and confusion among employees. The hearing highlighted the need for a clear direction and innovative solutions to overcome obstacles in NASA’s mission to explore the moon and beyond.
Source: https://www.space.com/nasa-must-consider-alternatives-artemis-program-experts-tell-congress