NASA Bars Chinese Nationals From Programs Amid Space Race

NASA Bars Chinese Nationals From Programs Amid Space Race
Above: Photo illustration of the NASA logo displayed on a smartphone screen. Image copyright: Thomas Fuller/LightRocket/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

This security crackdown is absolutely necessary to protect America's space dominance. Given recent cases like dual citizen Chenguang Gong's industrial espionage involving military sensors and orbital surveillance systems, the risk of Chinese nationals accessing NASA's military-related work is simply too high. America cannot afford to hand over critical space technology to a rival power actively trying to beat us to the Moon.

Establishment-critical narrative

Blocking qualified scientists based on nationality undermines the collaborative spirit that has driven space exploration forward for decades. This policy shift risks slowing scientific progress precisely when international cooperation could accelerate breakthroughs, and it sends a troubling message that politics now trumps merit in American scientific institutions. The move comes amid broader tensions that threaten to politicize what should remain a realm of human achievement.

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© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.15.2

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.15.2