Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — NASA has scrapped its plan to land the first woman and first non-white person on the Moon, a move influenced by policies introduced by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
As of Friday (March 21), the official website for Artemis, NASA’s lunar exploration program no longer includes references to diversity in its lunar landing plans. Previously, the website had stated: “NASA will land the first woman, the first person of color, and the first international partner astronaut on the Moon using innovative technologies to explore more lunar surface than ever before.”
The removal of the diversity-focused language was first reported by the Orlando Sentinel and is widely seen as a response to Trump’s broader policy to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across all federal agencies.
NASA spokesperson Allard Beutel confirmed the decision was made to comply with an executive order from Trump.
“In accordance with the president’s executive order, we have updated our language regarding plans to send a crew to the lunar surface as part of NASA’s Artemis campaign,” Beutel said in a statement as reported The Guardian.
“We look forward to learning more about and adapting to the Trump administration’s plans for our agency while continuing to expand lunar and Mars exploration for the benefit of all.”
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DEI initiatives are designed to promote fair treatment and equal opportunities, particularly for historically underrepresented or marginalized groups, including those facing discrimination based on identity or disability. These programs aim to combat systemic racism and provide equitable job opportunities.
Trump, however, has been a staunch opponent of DEI programs, arguing that they hinder opportunities for highly qualified individuals.
Artemis III is still scheduled to land on the lunar surface by mid-2027, though the crew members for the mission have yet to be announced. NASA previously launched Artemis I, an uncrewed mission around the Moon, in November 2022. Artemis II, which will carry astronauts without landing, is set for launch in April 2026.
(Raidi/Agung)
