New NASA boss Isaacman says U.S. will return to the moon within Trump's term

Jared Isaacman, the newly appointed NASA Administrator, has asserted that the United States is set to return to the moon during President Donald Trump's second term. Speaking with CNBC on 'Closing Bell Overtime,' Isaacman emphasized that Trump's renewed focus on lunar exploration is crucial for unlocking the potential of the 'orbital economy.' He stated, "We want to have that opportunity to explore and realize the scientific, economic, and national security potential on the moon." This marks one of Isaacman's first public comments since his Senate confirmation last week, following a protracted nomination saga throughout 2025. Initially nominated by Trump in December 2024, Isaacman’s candidacy faced setbacks due to alleged 'prior associations' that led to a retraction in May. While Trump did not elaborate on these associations, speculation suggested they were linked to Isaacman's close relationship with Elon Musk, amid a public feud between Trump and the SpaceX CEO. In November, Trump renewed his support for Isaacman's nomination. A seasoned entrepreneur, Isaacman previously commanded an orbital mission aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft in 2021, which further solidified his credentials as a civilian astronaut. Isaacman highlighted various lunar initiatives, including the establishment of space data centers and infrastructure, along with the potential mining of Helium-3. This rare gas, found on the moon's surface, could serve as a significant fuel source for future fusion power technologies. He elaborated on plans for building a 'moon base' and emphasized the importance of investing in nuclear power and space nuclear propulsion to advance exploration efforts. NASA is collaborating with several contractors, including SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Boeing, as part of its Artemis program aimed at moon exploration and preparing for future Mars missions. This initiative received a boost from the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' which allocated $9.9 billion to NASA earlier this year. Looking ahead, Isaacman mentioned that the Artemis II mission, which will be the first crewed test flight of the Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft, is anticipated to launch soon. Following that, the Artemis III mission will see SpaceX developing the lunar landing system. Both SpaceX and Blue Origin are currently refining heavy-lift launch vehicles to enhance reusability, making lunar travel more affordable and frequent, which Isaacman believes is essential for future missions to Mars and beyond.