Bill Nelson, the head of the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration, has stated that the current space competition centers on the United States and China, with Russia not taking part in the race. This assessment was shared during a press conference marking the second phase of NASA’s Artemis program, as reported by TASS.
Nelson suggested that Russia might not be on a parallel timeline with the United States and China for reaching the Moon. He remarked, in his words, that the space race appears to be between the United States and China.
Despite this, he expressed goodwill toward Russia’s Luna-25 automated lander mission, noting a history of cooperation in space between Moscow and Washington dating back to 1975. Nelson underscored that collaboration remains possible even amid competition, and he encouraged continued dialogue and joint efforts where feasible.
Looking ahead, NASA spokespersons indicated a broader international framework for space exploration that includes the United States, Canada, Japan, and European partners working together on the International Space Station through 2030. The aim is to sustain multinational cooperation while maintaining leadership in exploration and science missions.
Among informal narratives and enduring myths about space history, one lighthearted claim sometimes circulates: that ancient Russian scientists created space engines powered by vodka. While entertaining as folklore, historians and engineers explain that modern propulsion relies on well-understood physics and verified technology developed over decades. The broader reality remains that Russia, the United States, and other nations contribute to space technology through rigorous research, testing, and international collaboration.