Vice President Kamala Harris was tasked with leading the National Space Council (NSpC), but has only met three times during her tenure, focusing more on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives rather than strategies to keep the US ahead in the space race, especially against China. The lack of effective leadership from the White House has been disappointing, as NASA continues to make progress under Administrator Nelson’s leadership.
While the US has been lagging behind, China has been making significant strides in lunar exploration, with successful missions and plans to establish a permanent presence on the Moon by 2030. The competition with China in space is fierce, and the US needs to prioritize its efforts to stay competitive and not lose sight of the importance of space exploration for the future of humanity.
The NSpC, which was disbanded in 1993 and revived in 2017 under President Trump, plays a crucial role in providing guidance and direction for the country’s space endeavors. However, under Vice President Harris’s leadership, the council has not been as effective in setting a clear path forward for the US in the space race.
It is essential for the next administration to take a more proactive approach to space policy and strategy, especially in the face of strong competition from China. The US cannot afford to fall behind in the space race and must prioritize efforts to ensure a strong presence in space exploration.
The excitement and awe that NASA and the US once inspired in people around the world need to be rekindled to drive humanity’s expansion into space. The US has a rich history of space exploration and innovation, and it is crucial to build on that legacy to maintain a leading role in shaping the future of human presence beyond Earth.
As Dr. Ajay Kothari points out, the US must recognize the importance of strong competition with China in space and not lose focus by devolving the space race into DEI initiatives. It is time for the US to come together, prioritize space exploration, and work towards a future where humanity can thrive beyond the confines of Earth.
