Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing space race between China and the United States, particularly focusing on the potential for China to land astronauts on the Moon before NASA, which could lead to significant embarrassment for the U.S. [1][2] Group 1: Space Race Dynamics - Eric Berger's article suggests that China may likely "defeat" NASA in returning humans to the Moon within this decade, raising concerns about U.S. competitiveness in space exploration [1] - The author, Mark Whittington, warns that if China successfully lands astronauts on the Moon first, it will lead to a significant debate in the U.S. about accountability for the loss in the space race [1][2] Group 2: NASA's Artemis Program - NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon, with Artemis 2 scheduled to send astronauts to lunar orbit in early 2026, but the success of subsequent missions depends on the SpaceX Starship's ability to land astronauts on the Moon [4][6] - The timeline for the Artemis 3 mission, which plans to land astronauts on the Moon in 2027, is considered unrealistic by many independent space observers, with 2028 being a more likely target [6] Group 3: China's Lunar Ambitions - China has made significant progress in its lunar exploration program, with plans to achieve a crewed lunar landing by 2030 and to establish a lunar research station thereafter [10][11] - The Chinese lunar exploration program has successfully conducted multiple missions, laying the groundwork for future scientific exploration [10] Group 4: Technological and Strategic Considerations - The article highlights the importance of establishing a permanent lunar base as a key objective in the new space race, suggesting that the winner may not be the first to land on the Moon but the first to establish a sustainable presence [7] - NASA is exploring the construction of a nuclear reactor on the Moon to support future missions, although experts question the feasibility of this plan by the 2030 deadline [8]
“若登月输给中国,太尴尬,美国人要绷不住了”
Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-09-01 08:36