NASA administrator Bill Nelson warned that China's space capabilities are being used for military purposes under the guise of a civilian program, emphasizing the need for vigilance. He expressed concern that China could claim territory on the moon if it lands there first and urged the US to maintain its global edge in space exploration, as both nations pursue lunar missions. Nelson highlighted China's significant investment in space and the need for the US to remain realistic and not let down its guard.
A SpaceX Falcon rocket launched from Cape Canaveral carrying an undisclosed payload, coinciding with Russia's plan to deploy a nuclear weapon in space. The booster successfully completed its seventh mission, with a second launch scheduled for the Intuitive Machines lunar lander. The launch marks the 11th national security launch supported by a SpaceX Falcon, with the USSF-124 mission sending six satellites to orbit. Members of Congress were briefed on the threat, prompting calls to declassify information for open discussion. Russia's previous demonstrations of space weaponry, including satellite destruction and hypersonic missiles, have raised concerns about escalating tensions in space.
