Ars Technica
NASA chief concerned China may deny access to parts of South Pole
Thursday, September 24, 2026
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson expressed concern that China may restrict access to portions of the South Pole during a discussion about lunar exploration priorities. Nelson did not specify which areas China might limit or provide details about ongoing negotiations over polar region access. The statement reflects broader competition between the United States and China over lunar resources and research territories as both nations advance their space exploration programs.
