NASA has officially barred Chinese nationals from working within its space programmes, even if they hold valid US visas. The decision, confirmed on 5 September, blocks Chinese students, researchers, and contractors from accessing NASA facilities, networks, and materials. According to reports, many were abruptly locked out of agency systems and excluded from both in-person and virtual meetings related to their work.As BBC reported, NASA spokesperson Bethany Stevens explained that the action was taken to safeguard the agency’s physical and cybersecurity environment. While Chinese nationals previously contributed to research in limited capacities, these opportunities have now been revoked entirely.
NASA blocked from working with China over security and space concerns
The move reflects Washington’s growing suspicion of Beijing’s technological ambitions. For years, the US Congress has restricted NASA from collaborating with China, citing national security risks. This ban extends to sharing scientific data, which is why Chinese astronauts remain excluded from the International Space Station (ISS).Concerns have intensified as China rapidly advances its space programme. Several cases in the US involving alleged espionage by Chinese nationals, particularly scientists in sensitive fields; have fueled mistrust. This has made it harder for Chinese students pursuing science and technology degrees to secure visas or enter the United States, even after receiving approvals.
NASA warns of a “second space race” as China aims for the Moon first
NASA leaders have openly acknowledged that the world is witnessing a “second space race.” Acting administrator Sean Duffy told reporters that China aims to return astronauts to the Moon before the US, a scenario Washington is determined to prevent. “The Chinese want to get back to the Moon before us. That’s not going to happen,” Duffy declared.The rivalry is not merely symbolic. The Moon contains valuable resources, including rare earth minerals, titanium, iron, and helium—materials essential for industries ranging from advanced electronics to medical technology. Lawmakers in the US Senate have warned that if China establishes dominance over lunar resources, it could pose serious risks to America’s technological and strategic interests.
NASA blocks China cooperation amid growing space tensions
Chinese officials, however, have dismissed American concerns as unnecessary. The director of China’s Manned Space Agency’s technology bureau argued last year that space exploration should be seen as a “collective mission for humanity.” Despite this, Beijing has made no attempt to hide its ambitious goals, which include building a permanent lunar base and advancing crewed deep-space missions.The new NASA restrictions highlight the accelerating breakdown of scientific collaboration between the two superpowers. Once seen as a potential area for cooperation, space has now become a key battleground for influence and technological supremacy. With both nations racing to secure a foothold on the Moon, the stakes extend far beyond exploration—they include control over resources critical to the global economy and future industries.As Senator Ted Cruz put it during a recent Senate hearing: “China has made no secret of its goals. If our adversaries achieve dominant space capabilities, it would pose a profound risk to America… the stakes could not be higher”, BBC reports.Also Read | Solar Eclipse 2025: When and how to watch the last Surya Grahan of the year in India and other countries