Chapter Four
China’s Reusable Rocket Revolution: Implications for the United States and Artemis Allies
Elliot Joseph Fox
Whoever controls space controls the world.
— Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th President of the United States, often attributed but likely apocryphal
Abstract
China’s rapid advancements in reusable rocket technology have triggered a seismic shift in the balance of power in space exploration. While SpaceX’s pioneering achievements have positioned the United States at the forefront, China’s relentless pursuit of technological parity challenges this dominance. This chapter examines the complexities of China’s reusable rocket revolution, analyzing its implications for the United States and its Artemis allies. This analysis explores how this new space race could reshape international cooperation, exacerbate resource conflicts, and redefine the future of space power. As the United States grapples with the growing influence of China’s space capabilities, the chapter offers insights into strategic responses necessary to maintain leadership in this critical domain while navigating the risks and opportunities presented by this unprecedented competition.
