Washington delays manned moon landing to 2028, trailing Beijing in lunar race

11 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 29

NASA has downgraded its next Artemis flight to an Earth-orbit docking test in 2027, citing technical issues such as hydrogen leaks and heat shield erosion.
Meanwhile, China has advanced with successful abort and lander tests, and plans its Chang’e-7 lunar south pole mission later this year, strengthening its position in lunar exploration.
Experts warn that U.S. leadership in lunar exploration is at risk unless Washington adopts a unified strategy, prioritizes infrastructure, and better communicates the project's importance to the public.

Is America's shift to commercial partners enough to outpace China's state-led lunar program?

Are China's Earth-orbit satellite maneuvers a preview of its military strategy on the Moon?

How will cancelling the Lunar Gateway reshape international space alliances and commercial opportunities?

Beyond water, will the race for Helium-3 ignite the next phase of lunar competition?

Who will establish the legal framework for property rights and resource extraction on the Moon?