The Case for a U.S.-Led Lunar Research Facility
Very soon, the U.S. and its partner nations will land a crew on the Moon for the first time in over 65 years. While this will be a crowning achievement, plans for what comes after the new footprints are unclear. While NASA talks about a limited lunar habitat that will house a couple of astronauts for short visits, China is laying the groundwork for its International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) along with 12 partner nations, including Russia and South Africa. If leadership in the lunar research and resource development is important to the U.S. and its allies, the U.S. must set bold goals. In this forward-thinking panel, the speakers will present a rationale for a U.S.-led public-private lunar research outpost that encompasses not only geopolitical issues but also a long-term vision of global prosperity through the development of lunar resources and capabilities.