Experts have warned US lawmakers that NASA’s Artemis Program, aimed at returning humans to the Moon, faces significant technical challenges that may hinder its success. The concern arises as China advances its own lunar exploration efforts, posing a potential threat to America’s leadership in civil spaceflight.
During a recent hearing in Washington, DC, a subcommittee of the House Committee on Space, Science, and Technology raised doubts about NASA’s ability to compete with China. The focus shifted to addressing the technical obstacles within the Artemis Program to expedite the return to the Moon.
Former NASA Administrator Mike Griffin criticized the Artemis Program, highlighting the reliance on unproven technology such as reusable lunar landers refueled in space. He emphasized that this approach is unlikely to succeed, stating, ‘It cannot work.’
Lawmakers observed China’s consistency in long-term space exploration planning, contrasting it with NASA’s challenges in maintaining a stable trajectory due to changes in leadership and program objectives.
Experts stress the need for NASA to address the technical obstacles within the Artemis Program to ensure its viability and global leadership in space exploration.
Source: Ars Technica
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