The US space agency NASA has blocked Chinese citizens with valid US visas from its facilities, effectively barring them from contributing to one of the most esteemed institutions in space research. On September 5, Chinese nationals learned that they had lost all access to NASA's systems and facilities, according to Bloomberg News sources.
NASA confirmed that Chinese nationals would be restricted from utilizing the agency's facilities, materials and networks to ensure the security of our work. This action coincides with the alarming acceleration of China's own space program, further intensifying the competitive landscape between the two largest economies.
Due to national security concerns, Chinese astronauts are already excluded from accessing the International Space Station (ISS). The new restrictions from NASA only augment the decline in scientific collaboration, as both nations grow increasingly apprehensive of one another.
Recent occurrences of alleged espionage involving Chinese nationals, particularly scientists, have added to US suspicions. Reports indicate that Chinese nationals working for NASA were denied access to data systems and barred from meetings essential to their work, leading to confusion and alarm among affected individuals.
NASA's press secretary, Bethany Stevens, acknowledged the agency's internal actions regarding Chinese nationals and confirmed the restrictions on their physical and cyber access to facilities.
A recent Senate hearing underscored the urgency for the US to secure its lunar ambitions before China can achieve dominance in space capabilities. Senator Ted Cruz remarked, If our adversaries achieve dominant space capabilities, it would pose a profound risk to America. The developments indicate that the ongoing race is not solely about lunar exploration but also about securing control over the Moon's resources, which include valuable minerals and helium essential for numerous technologies.
