‘I think we will prevail’: NASA chief Jared Isaacman on Artemis, China and the new moon race (exclusive)

I think we will prevail: NASA chief Jared Isaacman on Artemis, China and the new moon race (exclusive) NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman has made it clear that the United States is intent on launching a new generation of heavy‑lift rockets to the moon every year under the Artemis programme. In an interview with Space.com, Isaacman spoke with confidence about the agency’s trajectory, saying that the agency is now on a more achievable path to the lunar surface than ever before. His comments arrive at a pivotal moment, as the agency celebrates the successful completion of Artemis II and braces for a new era of lunar exploration..

The success of Artemis II, the first crewed mission around the moon, has provided a clear benchmark for NASA’s ambitions. The flight, which carried a crew of three astronauts on a lunar fly‑by, was a technological and operational triumph. Isaacman highlighted how this achievement underlined the effectiveness of NASA’s partnership model, which relies on both commercial and international partners to deliver critical hardware and services..

While celebrating Artemis II’s success, Isaacman also acknowledged the competitive nature of the new space race. China’s recent launch of the Chang’e‑6 sample‑return mission has reignited concerns about maintaining leadership in space technology. The Chinese programme, which has already returned samples from the far side of the moon, poses a direct challenge to the United States’ lunar ambitions..

Isaacman emphasised that this competition will ultimately benefit both nations, pushing innovation and reducing costs through healthy rivalry. In practical terms, the Artemis strategy hinges on a series of heavy‑lift launches using NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS). Isaacman outlined the plan for a cadence of launches that would see a new heavy‑lift vehicle take off to the moon each year..

This approach, he said, will provide the necessary infrastructure to support both crewed landings and the eventual establishment of a permanent lunar base. The SLS’s payload capacity, combined with the modularity of the Orion capsule, will allow NASA to assemble and maintain a lunar outpost in a phased manner. The agency’s focus on a steady launch cadence also dovetails with its partnership with private industry..

NASA has contracted companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Lockheed Martin to deliver key components of the Artemis stack. Isaacman noted that this collaboration will accelerate the development of new technologies, from propulsion systems to habitat modules. By sharing risks and rewards, NASA aims to create a sustainable, reusable launch infrastructure that can support the increased activity on the lunar surface..

Beyond the launch vehicle, Isaacman discussed the importance of lunar surface operations. NASA plans to deploy the Lunar Gateway, a small space station in lunar orbit that will serve as a staging point for surface missions. The Gateway will host scientific laboratories, crew accommodations, and propulsion modules that enable astronauts to travel between the moon’s orbit and its surface..

Isaacman underscored the role of the Gateway as a springboard for deeper exploration, including missions to the moon’s south pole and eventual missions to Mars. The new moon race also brings with it a heightened focus on national security. Isaacman explained that the United States is investing in lunar-based technology that could have dual-use applications, such as satellite servicing and communications relays..

The strategic importance of the moon is becoming more apparent as rival nations expand their capabilities. By maintaining a robust presence on the lunar surface, NASA hopes to safeguard national interests while advancing scientific knowledge. Public engagement has become a crucial element of NASA’s strategy..

Isaacman revealed that the agency is working to create educational programmes that will inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. By showcasing the challenges and triumphs of the Artemis programme, NASA seeks to maintain public support and secure continued funding. The agency’s outreach efforts include virtual reality experiences, school curricula, and collaborations with universities around the world..

Looking ahead, Isaacman emphasized the long‑term vision of a lunar economy. He spoke of potential commercial activities such as mining regolith for water and oxygen, which could be used to produce fuel for deep space missions. The economic model would involve both government and private partners, creating new markets and opportunities for innovation..

Isaacman said that a thriving lunar economy would help offset the high costs of space exploration, making it more sustainable in the long term. Isaacman concluded the interview by reaffirming his belief in the United States’ ability to lead the next phase of space exploration. He noted that the combination of scientific ambition, commercial partnership, and international cooperation will allow NASA to achieve its goals..

As the agency prepares for the next set of Artemis missions, the focus remains on maintaining momentum, fostering innovation, and ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of lunar exploration..