Trump highlights NASA nuclear-powered Mars spacecraft mission planned for 2028
Mars mission plans
He cast the mission as groundwork for sending astronauts to Mars. Trump said it would help prepare for Americans to place the U.S. flag on the planet.
Artemis targets the moon
NASA’s Artemis program is intended to build a lasting human presence on the moon before crews eventually travel to Mars. Earlier this year, astronauts completed a lunar flyby during Artemis II.
A lasting presence in space
Trump said the United States would establish a permanent presence on the lunar surface. He also cited the American Declaration of Freedom in Space, which he said supports American exploration and settlement beyond Earth under U.S. law.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman spoke before Trump, describing goals that include traveling farther into the solar system. The administration has also announced plans for a U.S. Space Academy to train people for jobs in the Space Force, NASA and civilian spaceflight.
Key points
- Trump said NASA plans to launch a nuclear-powered Mars spacecraft within two years.
- Artemis III is scheduled for an Earth-orbit test in 2027.
- Trump also called for a permanent American presence on the moon.