I’m really not convinced that China landing people on the moon would be that much of a wake up call since “we’ve been there, done that.” The moon doesn’t have nearly the same inconceivable new frontier value like it did pre-apollo.
Maybe China landing astronauts on Mars would be different, but the general public and congress seem pretty apathetic towards space exploration.
The next frontier is not going to the moon, it’s staying there and utilising the local resources. This may have huge geostrategic implications too, so you can be damn sure the Yanks will take notice if the Chinese get there first.
I’m really not convinced that China landing people on the moon would be that much of a wake up call since “we’ve been there, done that.” The moon doesn’t have nearly the same inconceivable new frontier value like it did pre-apollo.
Maybe China landing astronauts on Mars would be different, but the general public and congress seem pretty apathetic towards space exploration.
The next frontier is not going to the moon, it’s staying there and utilising the local resources. This may have huge geostrategic implications too, so you can be damn sure the Yanks will take notice if the Chinese get there first.