NASA is stepping up efforts to launch a nuclear reactor to the moon and build a new commercial space station in response to competition from China.

Under the interim leadership of Sean Duffy, NASA is accelerating its strategic projects, including a nuclear reactor on the Moon, with a 2030 deadline, and replacing the International Space Station with commercial stations. These initiatives come in response to growing competition with China and budget pressures. Duffy has been criticized for holding two positions but aims to play an active role in NASA policy. The agency is seeking companies to develop the reactor and hopes to launch a new station into orbit by 2030.