Washington: President Donald Trump has signed a new space policy directing Nasa to send American astronauts to the Moon for the first time since 1972 and eventually to Mars, as he asserted that the US will “stay the leader” in space exploration.
“The directive I’m signing today will refocus America’s space programme on human exploration and discovery. It marks an important step in returning American astronauts to the moon for the first time since 1972 for long-term exploration and use,” Mr Trump said at the White House on Monday.
The last time US astronauts went to the Moon was during the Apollo missions of the 1960s and 1970s.
“This time, we will not only plant our flag and leave our footprint, we will establish a foundation for an eventual mission to Mars. And perhaps, someday, to many worlds beyond,” Mr Trump said.
He said the directive will ensure the US’ space programme once again leads and inspires all of humanity. Mr Trump described his directive as a “giant step toward that inspiring future” and toward reclaiming America’s proud destiny in space. “Space has so much to do with so many other applications, including a military application. So we are the leader and we’re going to stay the leader, and we’re going to increase it manifold,” Mr Trump said.
