Well, imagine you were an engineer working a decade on this rocket. You wouldn't want the outcome you described. SLS Development started in 2011, I suspect dec

Well, imagine you were an engineer working a decade on this rocket. You wouldn't want the outcome you described. SLS Development started in 2011, I suspect decision to build was way before (budget had to be allocated after all). SpaceX first F9 launch was June 2010 and landing was Dec 2015. On 2011 they were awarded contract to develop launch escape system for Dragon for preparation of crew launch. I mean at the time SLS was planned everyone was laughing Elon off at the idea of landing a rocket. SpaceX was new kid on the block and not yet as trusted and reliable as we view them today. I think it wouldn't have been a wise decision to: "No, let's not develop a rocket for us to go to moon, let's wait maybe some commercial launcher will have so much success and resources that we will do it so much cheaper after 10-15 years." So, what I want to say - SLS looks like an old-time-space participant, and if capabilities will be here (I sure think so), it will be much cheaper to achieve moon landings.