Yes, it is theoretically possible for China to colonize the Moon without NASA's help. However, the successful colonization of the Moon would require significant resources, technology, and expertise. China has been making significant strides in its space program in recent years and has demonstrated capabilities in lunar exploration.
China's space agency, the China National Space Administration (CNSA), has successfully landed robotic missions on the Moon, such as the Chang'e lunar lander series. These missions have collected valuable data and have helped China gain experience in lunar exploration. China has also expressed its intention to establish a long-term lunar presence and has plans for future manned missions to the Moon.
To colonize the Moon, China would need to develop the necessary infrastructure, such as habitats, life support systems, and resource utilization technologies to sustain human presence. It would require the establishment of a sustainable supply chain for resources like water, oxygen, and energy. China would also need to overcome challenges such as radiation protection, lunar dust management, and the long-term effects of low gravity on human health.
While NASA has been a pioneer in space exploration and has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and expertise, it is not the only organization capable of lunar colonization. China has a strong space program and has made significant advancements in recent years, suggesting that it could potentially pursue lunar colonization independently.
It is worth noting that space exploration and colonization are complex endeavors that often benefit from international cooperation and collaboration. Nations may choose to work together to pool resources, share expertise, and reduce costs. Currently, there is growing interest in global space exploration and collaboration, which could potentially involve multiple countries, including China and the United States.