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The head of the U.S. space agency, NASA, has expressed concern about China's growing space program and the possibility of a military presence in space. Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator, voiced these concerns during a congressional hearing on April 10, 2024, while testifying about NASA's budget request for fiscal year 2025.

Nelson pointed to China's rapid advancements in space exploration over the past decade, particularly their secretive nature. He stated, "China has made extraordinary strides...but they are very, very secretive." He went on to express his belief that "a lot of their so-called civilian space program is a military program," raising the specter of a renewed space race. 

Nelson emphasized the importance of the United States maintaining its leadership in space exploration. He stressed the need to land astronauts back on the moon before China does, with the Artemis 3 mission currently scheduled for 2026.  He voiced his concern that China, if it reaches the moon first, might attempt to claim lunar resources or restrict access to certain areas.

The comments highlight the growing competition between the U.S. and China in space exploration. While both nations have made significant strides in recent years, there are concerns that this competition could lead to a militarization of space. International treaties currently prohibit nations from placing weapons of mass destruction in space, but the definition of "military" can be ambiguous.

Nelson's comments come amidst ongoing discussions about the future of space exploration and the need for international cooperation. It remains to be seen how these concerns will be addressed and whether both nations can find a way to collaborate peacefully in the vast expanse of space.