March 27, 2026

This Week in Space 203: China Rising

56 minutes

Many suggest there is a new space race afoot, this time between the US and China. We've also know that America seems to be at its best in innovation and achievement when challenged by some external force. Will the Chinese human lunar program light the fuse of American innovation and accomplishment when it comes to our lagging lunar program and other spaceflight initiatives? Dr. Namrata Goswami of Johns Hopkins University joins us to examine the intricacies of potential threats to American leadership in space and the possible outcomes. Who will be first to land astronauts on the moon? Does it really matter? Who controls what regions of the moon? Will cislunar space be contested between major space powers? This and much more in this episode of This Week in Space.

Headlines:

Artemis 2 Mission Nears Launch, Astronauts Arrive at Kennedy Space Center

Stunning New Images of Saturn Released from Webb and Hubble Telescopes

"For All Mankind" Renewed for Sixth and Final Season

Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope Clears Vibration Test, Launch Date Set

Main Topic: U.S.-China Competition and Global Ambitions in Space

Dr. Namrata Goswami Explains the Evolution of the New Space Race

China's Strategic, Economic, and Cultural Goals for Lunar Exploration

Comparison of U.S. and Chinese Approaches to Public Messaging and Program Identity

The Role of the Artemis Accords vs. China's International Lunar Research Station Partnerships

The Legal and Political Implications of Lunar Safety and Exclusion Zones

Space Force's Emerging Role in Cislunar Security and Commerce

Increasing Global Participation: India, Japan, and Developing Nations Expand Space Competition

Impact of Lunar "Real Estate" and Resource Maps on International Strategies

Hosts: Rod Pyle and Tariq Malik

Guest: Dr. Namrata Goswami

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