The Daily A New Race to the Moon
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Aug 28, 2023 Kenneth Chang, a science reporter for The New York Times and a moon exploration expert, delves into India's historic Chandrayaan-3 landing near the lunar south pole. He discusses the discovery of frozen water on the moon and its profound implications for future missions. Chang also highlights the changing landscape of the space race, with new players emerging and the geopolitical significance of lunar exploration. Korea's and China's advancements reflect a global competition that reshapes scientific collaboration and national pride.
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Moon's Rediscovered Value
- Scientists rediscovered the moon's potential value in the mid-1990s through radar images.
- Shiny reflections at the poles suggested the presence of ice, renewing interest in lunar exploration.
Importance of Lunar Water Ice
- Water ice on the moon is crucial for potential lunar bases.
- It can provide drinking water, oxygen for breathing, and hydrogen for rocket fuel or power generation.
New Players in Space Race
- The new space race involves private companies and countries beyond the traditional US and Russia.
- The US has been inconsistent with its lunar program, allowing other nations like China to emerge.