NASA chief says SpaceX might lose contract for moon mission | DW News

Key Concepts

• Artemis Program: NASA's initiative to return humans to the Moon.
• Lunar Lander Contract: The agreement for a company to provide the vehicle for astronauts to land on the Moon.
• SpaceX Starship: SpaceX's reusable super heavy-lift launch vehicle, currently undergoing testing.
• Commercial Crew Program: NASA's program to develop private spacecraft for transporting astronauts to the International Space Station.
• Department of Transportation (DOT): The US government department responsible for transportation infrastructure and policy.
• Acting NASA Administrator: The individual temporarily holding the position of NASA's head.
• Cost-Plus Contract: A type of government contract where the contractor is reimbursed for all allowable costs plus a fixed fee representing profit.

Elon Musk's Public Attack on Sean Duffy

Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, launched a public criticism of Sean Duffy, the US Transportation Secretary and acting NASA Administrator. Musk, via his social media platform X, referred to Duffy as a "dummy" and accused him of attempting to "kill NASA." This outburst occurred shortly after Duffy invited other companies to compete with SpaceX for NASA's lunar landing mission, citing delays in SpaceX's Starship program.

Background of the Lunar Lander Contract

In 2021, SpaceX was awarded a $2.9 billion contract by NASA to develop the lunar lander for the Artemis program. However, the program has faced challenges, particularly with SpaceX's Starship test program, leading to pressure on the company to deliver.

Analysis of the Feud

Eric Berger, Senior Space Editor at Ars Technica, described the feud as "bonkers." He suggests the conflict is primarily driven by Elon Musk feeling disrespected by Sean Duffy, whom Musk likely holds in low regard due to Duffy's background as a former reality TV star and congressman before heading the Department of Transportation and NASA. Berger believes Musk is characteristically using his social media platform to express his frustration.

NASA Administrator's Public Criticism of Contractors

Berger notes that it is unusual for NASA administrators to publicly criticize their contractors. He highlights that Duffy's announcement of space policy changes on Fox News is also uncommon. Berger points out a perceived double standard, recalling that in 2019, then-administrator Jim Bridenstine publicly urged SpaceX to deliver on the Commercial Crew program. At that time, both SpaceX and Boeing were contracted for this program. SpaceX successfully launched crew in 2020, while Boeing has yet to achieve an operational spacecraft six years later.

Sean Duffy's Interest in NASA Oversight

Berger discusses reports indicating that Sean Duffy has expressed a strong interest in maintaining oversight of NASA, potentially by folding the agency into the Department of Transportation. This move, according to Berger, could offer Duffy opportunities for public appearances and credit for NASA's successes while delegating operational management. The seriousness with which this idea is being taken is uncertain, though Berger suggests Duffy himself takes it "pretty seriously."

Internal NASA Climate and Workforce Concerns

The current mood within NASA is described as "not great." The agency has experienced workforce cuts, with approximately 20% of employees leaving due to buyouts and reduction programs. Many of those who departed were in leadership positions, particularly at science-focused centers, leading to uncertainty and concern. The ongoing government shutdown further exacerbates the situation, with many employees at home and unpaid. Proposed budget cuts, especially to Earth science programs, add to the widespread apprehension. The public dispute between Musk and Duffy is seen as detrimental to the agency's morale and operations.

Competition for the Lunar Lander Contract

While Sean Duffy has invited tenders for the lunar landing mission, it is considered unlikely that SpaceX's existing contract will be revoked, as NASA has already allocated a significant portion of the funding. To incentivize a competitor like Blue Origin, or to fund a third option for a traditional cost-plus contract lander, substantial new funding would be required. Berger estimates this could amount to around $20 billion, nearly ten times the current expenditure on SpaceX's contract. He expresses doubt about NASA's or Duffy's ability to secure such funding from Congress.

Future of NASA Administrator Position

Regarding the next permanent NASA Administrator, Berger believes it is unlikely to be Sean Duffy. Recent reports suggest the White House is growing tired of Duffy's efforts to retain the position and is unhappy with his public conflict with Elon Musk. The leading contender for the role is reportedly Jared Isaacman, a private astronaut nominated earlier in the year, though this is not a certainty and the decision rests with the President.