NASA says it will return the US to the Moon by the end of Trump’s presidency

The United States plans to return to the Moon during Donald Trump’s second presidential term.

This was stated in an interview with CNBC by the newly appointed NASA administrator, Jared Isaacman.

According to Isaacman, Trump’s new commitment to lunar exploration is a key factor in achieving an “orbital economy.” He emphasized that the Moon has significant scientific, economic and strategic potential for the United States, including from a national security perspective.

Isaacman was first nominated by Trump to head NASA in December 2024, but in May 2025 the president unexpectedly withdrew his candidacy, citing the candidate’s “prior ties.” Although it was not officially specified what exactly was at stake, the media attributed this to Isaacman’s close relationship with Elon Musk, with whom Trump had a public conflict over the summer. In November, Trump nominated Isaacman again, and this time the candidacy was approved.

After establishing a lunar base, NASA, according to Isaacman, will consider investing in nuclear power and nuclear engines for spacecraft, which will allow it to expand the boundaries of solar system exploration.