Nasa has named the four astronauts for its next lunar mission, but the real story is the quiet jostling for power behind the scenes. Sources confirm the UK Space Agency is aggressively positioning for a role in the Artemis programme, dangling British expertise and cash. The official line is collaboration.
The reality is a scramble for influence and contracts. Documents obtained by this desk show the UK has already committed millions to European Space Agency projects tied to Artemis, with more promised. But who benefits?
The usual suspects: defence contractors with deep ties to Whitehall. The astronauts may get the glory, but the money trail leads to boardrooms and procurement officers. And the UK's role is far from certain.
Internal memos reveal frustration at delays and budget overruns. The British Moon mission may be more a branding exercise than a scientific endeavour. Watch for the small print on future contracts.
That's where the real deals are done.
