SpaceX Exec Warns US Could Lose Moon Race to China Due to Launch Delays

SpaceX vice president William Gerstenmaier accused regulators of delaying Starship development, saying it could allow China to beat the US in landing astronauts on the moon.

Gerstenmaier said regulatory reviews by agencies like the FAA are taking longer than building the Starship rocket itself.

He warned launch delays could cause the US to "lose our lead" and allow "China land on the moon before we do."

The FAA said keeping pace with industry demand is a priority, citing national security and exploration needs.

Lawmakers and industry agreed commercial space regulations need change, including extending a moratorium on passenger safety rules.