NASA is contemplating the possibility of sidelining SpaceX in its plans for lunar exploration due to delays in the development of the lunar lander, according to acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy. In recent television interviews, Duffy indicated that SpaceX is falling behind on its timeline, potentially hindering NASA”s ambitions to return humans to the moon ahead of China.
Duffy stated, “They push their timelines out, and we”re in a race against China,” referring specifically to delays in the development of Starship, the vehicle intended to transport astronauts to the lunar surface. As a result, Duffy announced plans to reopen the contract for the lunar lander, allowing other space companies to compete with SpaceX for the mission.
This potential shift would mark a significant change in NASA”s strategy, as the agency has partnered with SpaceX since 2021 to utilize Starship for the Artemis III mission. The Artemis III mission is currently scheduled for mid-2027, aiming to land astronauts on the moon for the first time in over fifty years.
In response to Duffy”s comments, a spokesperson for NASA has not provided further details regarding the timeline or process for reassessing the agreement with SpaceX. Meanwhile, Duffy noted during an interview on “Fox & Friends” that he is actively working on opening the contract for bids.
Nasa has also contracted Blue Origin, the aerospace firm founded by Amazon”s Jeff Bezos, to develop a lunar lander named Blue Moon, which could potentially take on the lunar landing role if SpaceX continues to lag. Blue Origin responded to inquiries by stating they are “ready to support” NASA”s objectives.
The urgency of meeting the planned timeline has intensified as lawmakers express concern that the Artemis III mission may not occur before Chinese astronauts, referred to as taikonauts, reach the moon. China aims to achieve this milestone by 2030.
Duffy hinted that if Blue Origin is capable of meeting the timeline sooner than SpaceX, it would be advantageous for the mission. “If SpaceX is behind, but Blue Origin can do it before them, good on Blue Origin,” he said. “But we”re not going to wait for one company. We”re going to push this forward and win the second space race against the Chinese.”
Industry experts are raising questions about the complexities associated with both SpaceX”s Starship and Blue Origin”s lunar lander, highlighting the potential need for in-orbit refueling, a process not yet attempted in space missions. This requirement could extend development timelines significantly.
While it remains uncertain which other American companies might step forward to compete for NASA”s Artemis contracts, Alabama-based Dynetics was among the initial contenders for the lunar lander contract alongside Blue Origin and SpaceX. However, Dynetics has not provided a comment regarding the current situation.
As NASA navigates these challenges, the outcome will play a crucial role in determining the future of America”s presence on the lunar surface and its standing in the renewed space race.
