Sky News Daily Will Trump make space great again?
Feb 7, 2025
Tom Clarke, Sky News Science and Technology editor, discusses the fierce competition between the U.S. and China in the space race. He explores the ambitious Artemis program and its challenges, including rising costs and delays. With Trump pushing for renewed lunar missions, the conversation shifts to the potential of Mars as the next frontier. Clarke also highlights the changing dynamics at NASA, as private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin gain traction. The interplay of politics and technology could reshape America’s cosmic ambitions.
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Artemis Program Goals
- The Artemis program aims to establish a lasting moon presence, going beyond Apollo's brief visits.
- It involves testing technologies for interplanetary travel and resource utilization, like using lunar ice for fuel.
Artemis Cost Concerns
- Artemis faces criticism for its high cost, particularly the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.
- Political lobbying and the use of leftover Space Shuttle parts contributed to the inflated expenses.
China's Lunar Ambitions
- China's space program targets a 2030 moon landing, creating an unofficial space race with the US.
- This puts pressure on the Trump administration, as a Chinese moon landing before Artemis would be embarrassing.