US-China cooperation on Artemis Lunar Missions remains uncertain

Policy

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By Sky Industry News

Nov 17, 2024

The United States and China are both advancing their lunar exploration programs with significant projects aimed at establishing a sustainable presence on the moon. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is leading the Artemis program, which aims to create a robust infrastructure for lunar missions. Meanwhile, China is developing the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) in collaboration with countries like Russia, Belarus, Egypt, Nicaragua, and South Africa.

The Atlantic Council has highlighted that "the United States and its allies are developing a major space program to return to the moon and establish a permanent presence with a lunar base and an orbiting lunar space station." It also noted that "China is leading a very similar project called the International Lunar Research Station."

As both nations aim for long-term lunar missions, cooperation between them could be beneficial. However, according to NASA’s Chief Bill Nelson, no discussions have occurred regarding collaboration on lunar missions. He stated to Space.com: "The answer to that is no. We have had conversations in the deconfliction of orbit around Mars."

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Nelson expressed hope for future talks concerning coordination around the moon's orbits but confirmed that "those have not been held thus far." He added, "Concerning the south pole of the moon, that's to be determined."

The necessity for detailed exchanges in navigation and communication protocols has been emphasized due to potential risks of accidental collisions. Nelson remarked on the importance of mutual assistance during emergencies: "The objective of the Artemis Accords is the peaceful exploration of space and coming to help each other in times of need.”

Establishing formal channels for cooperation could involve creating bilateral working groups between NASA and China's National Space Administration (CNSA). This would ensure readiness for rescue missions and allow mutual use of resources like communication services.

The geopolitical tension between these two nations poses challenges but also underscores the importance of finding common ground as outlined by international agreements such as the United Nations Rescue and Return of Astronauts Agreement of 1968. As articulated by The Atlantic Council: “For instance...how can countries make their ships compatible to dock if medical support is needed?"