Why commercial space should lead the U.S. return to the moon

Why commercial space should lead the U.S. return to the moon

Executive Summary The National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) return-humans-to-the-moon program is a failure. Conceived as a modernized version of the Apollo program of 50 years ago, it is based on a massive launch vehicle (SLS), an adaptation of the Apollo capsule, and “proven” components from the failed Space Shuttle program—refurbished engines and modified solid rocket boosters. All are being delivered under sole-source, cost-p…