China at it again: Beijing hiding military activities in space as civilian programmes, says NASA

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China has made some seriously impressive advancements in space, despite their space programme working in isolation. NASA chief Bill Nelson believes that their civilian space program is a military program

The three astronauts who are stationed at Tiangong, China's own space station that it built in under a decade. Image Credit: Reuters

The head of NASA has raised concerns about China's space ambitions, warning that Beijing may be using civilian space programs to conceal military objectives, urging Washington to remain vigilant.

"China has made extraordinary strides, especially in the last 10 years, but they are very, very secretive," NASA chief Bill Nelson said

He highlighted China's significant advancements in space technology over the past decade but stressed the secrecy surrounding their activities. "We believe that a lot of their so-called civilian space program is a military program," Nelson stated during his testimony before lawmakers on Capitol Hill. "And I think, in effect, we are in a race."

Expressing hope that Beijing would prioritize peaceful uses of space, Nelson emphasized the lack of demonstrated commitment from China to this end. His remarks came as he testified before the House Appropriations Committee on NASA's budget for 2025.

Nelson asserted the importance of the United States landing on the moon before China, as both nations pursued lunar missions. He voiced concerns that if China were to achieve this milestone first, they might assert territorial claims over lunar regions.

Highlighting previous statements, Nelson reiterated the perception of a space race between the US and China, warning of potential claims by China over lunar resources. China's recent space endeavours include the establishment of an Earth-orbiting space station and several lunar missions, while the US plans to return astronauts to the moon in 2026 with its Artemis III mission.

While China aims to send humans to the moon by 2030, Nelson expressed confidence in the United States maintaining its leadership position in space exploration. However, he cautioned against complacency, acknowledging China's significant investment in space programs and the need for continued vigilance. "I think that we just better not let down our guard," Nelson emphasized.

(With inputs from agencies)