U.S. Media: China and the U.S. are entering a new lunar race; the U.S. aims to return to the Moon by 2028, while China plans crewed lunar landing by 2030. NASA Administrator admits China may get there first, citing its advantages in centralized planning and long-term investment, and noting China has already completed humanity's first sample collection from the far side of the Moon.
China is adopting a combination of the "Long March 10" rocket, "Mengzhou" spacecraft, and "Lanyue" lander, with landing sites chosen on the more accessible near side of the Moon; in contrast, the U.S. is targeting the technically more challenging South Pole region and relying on private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin to develop landers—none of which have been completed yet.
China’s space system integrates military and civilian sectors with technology sharing, whereas the U.S. places greater reliance on commercial suppliers. Both nations plan to establish lunar bases, exploit resources, and deploy nuclear power systems. This competition will determine who sets the future rules for outer space.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861468622270475/
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