Congress is all in on NASA’s new vision to build up infrastructure on the lunar surface, according to Rep. Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), who chairs the House space subcommittee.
Last week, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced several changes to the agency’s long-term vision, including plans to build a Moon base, to launch uncrewed missions to the lunar surface monthly starting in 2027, and to put US boots on the Moon in 2028. Per Haridopolos, the new plans have lawmakers fired up for the US to lead in space exploration.
“What I have heard from colleagues is they’re really rallying behind the idea of going to the Moon,” he told Payload. “Once we establish a base there…that might be the best place to launch to Mars.”
Ready to launch: Haridopolos also said lawmakers are excited about the Artemis II mission to circle the Moon—an early step in the long-term goal of a permanent lunar presence. However, the mission, which is set to launch Wednesday night from Cape Canaveral, isn’t captivating the broader public in the same way that Apollo did.
“They just have so much on their plate right now. The Iranian conflict, challenges at home because of budget fights, the day-to-day activities that consume people’s lives. We hope people will take more of an interest,” he said.
Good vibes only: For Haridopolos, a long-time resident of the Florida space coast who was elected to represent the district in 2025, there’s a lot to be excited about—both now and in the future.
Artemis II can be a “great rallying cry” for Americans, Haridopolos said, joining together people from all walks of life (and across the political spectrum) to root for the astronauts.
For NASA’s broader lunar push, Haridopolos said he’s most excited about the possible, unexpected tech developed on the way to the Moon that could also improve life on Earth.
“There’s a smorgasbord of potential here,” he said.
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