Apparently the Chinese government didn’t see Apollo 18. Yeah. I don’t think anybody did. Perhaps now that it’s available for rent they’ll check it out, and it will slightly alter their plans; however, at present, China is preparing for a mission to the moon, as well as many other play dates in space.
The manned lunar mission is one goal of many for the Chinese space program. They have stated that the growth in their economy, brings about the necessity to pursue other endeavors, namely in the name of science and exploration. And what better time to take the baton than when the United States has wrapped its shuttle program, and is scaling back the funds dedicated to space travel and exploration?
We’re well aware that the private sector can spend the money, pay for the brightest minds and offer the same science. In short, we’re not keeping anyone from going to the farthest reaches of space if they choose to do so…so long as they’re not thrusting apocalyptic death rays into orbit.
But of the lunar landing. We’re in pretty good with the Chinese now. They have stated that they want to collect moon samples. I wonder if they know we’d probably share some of ours–for study, display, etc. But then, the dust is always greyer, isn’t it?
In addition to the lunar landing that is several years down the line, the Chinese government plans to build space stations, which became an immediate concern to the current United States administration. Though China has declared that their military run space program is only interested in peaceful exploration, they were never a part of the space security talks that took place between the U.S. and Russia during the cold war. The invitation to chat has been extended, and current officials believe the response will determine China’s true intentions.
Isn’t that the cue to roll your eyes and shake your head?
Comments
No comments.