The leading spacefaring powers have recently focused on the Moon as the closest target with which to begin extraterrestrial expansion. The U.S. and China have launched ambitious programs to build lunar bases. Large international blocs are forming around these initiatives as space exploration becomes increasingly politicized after a period of global cooperation. There are plans for the exploitation of lunar resources, albeit with a slow return on investment. To defend future acquisitions, the first military programs have been commenced, and the U.S. Space Force has doctrinally proclaimed the Moon an area of its responsibility. Although many plans will be delayed, and the most optimistic ideas probably never realized, humanity is taking its first steps beyond near-Earth orbit. But it does so, carrying the residue of many earthly problems and contradictions.