NASA tightens restrictions on Chinese scientists participating in space projects.

According to a report by Agence France-Presse on September 10th, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the United States announced on the same day that, as a so-called security measure, it will further restrict the participation of Chinese scientists in its space projects, even if they have valid U.S. visas. The report stated that a NASA spokesperson said in an email, "NASA has taken internal measures concerning Chinese nationals, particularly limiting their access to our facilities, equipment, and networks in person or through information channels, in order to ensure the safety of our work." This statement confirms a previous report by Bloomberg. The Bloomberg report also mentioned that despite existing restrictions on hiring at NASA for a long time, some Chinese scientists with U.S. visas were still participating in certain projects as subcontractors, students, or university partners. These new measures come at a time of increased tension in U.S.-China relations following Trump's return to the White House. Both sides hope to achieve manned moon missions in the coming years. NASA Acting Administrator Sean D. Dooley stated to the media on September 10th, "We are entering the second space race." The report mentions that the United States' moon landing program has been delayed multiple times, and given concerns about the Trump administration's budget plan, this timeline may be further delayed. This could potentially allow China to take the lead in achieving a successful manned moon mission.