Make Me Smart Make Me Smart: Lunar Edition
Apr 3, 2026
Eric Berger, senior space editor at Ars Technica and author on SpaceX and reusable rockets, shares frontline perspective from the Artemis II launch. He discusses why Artemis II won’t mirror Apollo’s cultural impact. He explains the growing role of commercial space, how an IPO could reshape SpaceX, and what future missions like Dragonfly and lunar probes might mean.
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Artemis II Was Visually Thrilling But Not A Cultural Flashpoint
- Artemis II felt exciting and inspirational but not as culturally seismic as Apollo 8 given today's media fragmentation.
- Eric Berger watched the daytime SLS launch from ~3.5 miles away and said the clear visuals and power made it uniquely thrilling.
Media Landscape And History Explain Lower Public Attention
- Today's public reaction to lunar missions is muted because media choices expanded and the moon no longer feels novel.
- Berger contrasts three-network 1968 coverage and Cold War urgency that made Apollo a global event watched by ~25% of people worldwide.
Prioritize Core Exploration Goals For A Credible Lunar Program
- Focus NASA efforts on core exploration goals if the aim is a sustainable lunar base, says Jared Isaacman's approach.
- Isaacman, an outsider administrator, is trimming peripheral programs and aligning Congress to prioritize moon-focused activities.
