Call for Cooperation in Space Exploration
British astronaut Tim Peake has urged the US and China to de-escalate their space race and instead work together in a spirit of cooperation as they plan to return to the moon. In an interview, Mr. Peake emphasized the importance of cooperation in space exploration, citing the successful collaboration between astronauts from Russia and Western countries on the International Space Station (ISS) despite geopolitical tensions.
The Need for Cooperation
Mr. Peake highlighted the risks involved in space exploration and the need for contingency plans to rescue astronauts from other countries in emergency situations. He stated that it would be "foolish" not to have common docking systems to facilitate cooperation and assistance. The spirit of exploration, he said, is about working together as one species.
US-China Space Race
The US and China are currently engaged in a space race, with NASA’s acting chief, Sean Duffy, promising to establish a sustainable presence on the moon before China. However, Mr. Peake cautioned against a competitive approach, emphasizing the importance of learning from the success of the ISS, where astronauts from different countries have worked together for 25 years.
Upcoming NASA Mission
NASA is set to send four astronauts on a mission to orbit the moon, the first crewed flight of its new SLS mega-rocket. While there are risks associated with the mission, Mr. Peake expressed confidence in the dedication and expertise of the astronauts and the team working on the Artemis mission.
European Involvement
The European Space Agency has announced that a German astronaut will be the first from Europe to participate in a future Artemis mission to the moon. Mr. Peake, who is leaving the ESA in 2023, hopes that a British astronaut will soon follow, with Rosemary Coogan from Northern Ireland being part of the agency’s trained astronaut corps. He expressed his desire to see a Union flag on the moon’s surface in the not-too-distant future.
Conclusion
As the world looks to return to the moon, Mr. Peake’s call for cooperation and collaboration is a timely reminder of the importance of working together in the pursuit of space exploration. By learning from past successes and embracing a spirit of cooperation, nations can achieve great things and push the boundaries of human knowledge and achievement.
