Trump’s proposal to rename the moon sparks debate

In January 2025, President-elect Donald Trump announced a proposal to rename the Moon to ‘Space America’, sparking widespread discussion and debate.

The announcement

During a press conference, Trump said, “The Moon has always been a symbol of American innovation and spirit. By renaming it ‘Space America,’ we assert our leadership in space exploration and inspire future generations.”

Public response

The proposal has received mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the new name reflects America’s accomplishments in space, including the Apollo missions. However, critics see the renaming as unnecessary and potentially dismissive of international contributions to lunar exploration.

International response

Global leaders have expressed concern over the unilateral nature of the proposal. The European Space Agency stressed that the Moon is humanity’s shared heritage, and any changes must involve international consent.

Legal and practical considerations

Experts highlighted that international treaties such as the 1967 Outer Space Treaty designate the Moon as a global common property, preventing any single nation from claiming sovereignty. Renaming celestial bodies generally falls under the jurisdiction of the International Astronomical Union, which follows a collaborative and scientific approach.