NASA launched Artemis II, the first crewed mission to travel around the Moon in more than fifty years, according to an April 1 statement from Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz. The successful launch marks a significant step toward the United States returning astronauts to the lunar surface by 2028.
The mission is seen as a key milestone for American leadership in what Cruz called the "second space race." He said, “Artemis II is more than a mission; it’s a message to the world that the United States will lead this era of space exploration. I am incredibly proud of astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen, whose courage and spirit of discovery will inspire generations and reaffirm our nation’s commitment to pushing the boundary of what is possible.”
Cruz also noted international competition in lunar exploration efforts. “While today’s success is historic, it is important to remember that we are not the only nation with eyes on the Moon, as China is advancing its own space ambitions. I have been very clear: we cannot afford to finish as a runner-up. It’s vital for American economic and national security interests that we retain the high ground in space, and I’m confident that with sustained discipline and innovation, America will win the second space race,” he said.
Cruz highlighted bipartisan legislative efforts supporting NASA during his tenure as chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. He said long-term funding was secured for NASA programs including plans for building a permanent base on the Moon: “During my time as chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee, we’ve secured massive, long-term funding for NASA and advanced a bipartisan reauthorization of NASA’s programs that includes building a permanent American base on the Moon. I look forward to continuing to work with NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman to achieve this critical goal.”
Last month saw unanimous advancement by committee members on new legislation aimed at maintaining U.S. dominance in lunar missions—the NASA Authorization Act of 2026—and $10 billion was secured last year through congressional action known as One, Big, Beautiful Bill.
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee reviews legislation related to commerce, science and transportation during congressional sessions according to its official website. The committee serves within Congress under direction from its chairman with members from both parties according to its official website. Its main office is located in Washington D.C.'s Russell Senate Office Building according to its official website.
