NASA bans Chinese participation in its programs amid escalation in the space race with China

In a move reflecting a new escalation in the space race between the United States and China, the American space agency NASA has imposed strict restrictions on the participation of Chinese citizens holding American visas in its scientific programs, effective September 5, according to media reports citing sources within the agency.

The decision, described as an "internal measure", includes:
- Restricting physical and digital access to NASA facilities and information
- Prohibiting direct contracting or research collaboration with Chinese citizens, except in limited cases
- Enhancing cybersecurity amid concerns of potential technical leaks or breaches

Although the number of affected individuals is estimated to be less than 100, the decision has impacted hundreds of researchers and scientists whose research in climate and space was funded by NASA.

This decision comes at a time when China is preparing to launch a manned mission to the Moon by 2030, with plans to establish a permanent base there, while the United States, through the Artemis program, aims to return to the Moon in 2027, despite recurring delays and budget issues.

In a press conference, acting NASA Administrator Shawn Duffy stated: "We are in a second space race now... the Chinese want to return to the Moon before us, and that will not happen".

China is also seeking to be the first country to return samples from the surface of Mars through a planned robotic mission in 2028, while the administration of President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of canceling the joint mission with the European Space Agency, replacing it with a manned mission, without providing confirmed details.