NASA is a fundamentally political organization. Given that it's political the risk isn't worth it. Risk only happened early in NASA's history (Apollo) because the alternative geopolitical risk (Soviets landing humans on the moon) was so much higher. Once that driving force was gone there was no longer an appetite for risk.
And even look today, look at the relatively small risks (minor environmental rule edge skirting) SpaceX takes with unmanned test vehicles (Starship) and how much they're completely and constantly raked over the coals for it. The media in the modern era only knows how to attack and criticize.
And even look today, look at the relatively small risks (minor environmental rule edge skirting) SpaceX takes with unmanned test vehicles (Starship) and how much they're completely and constantly raked over the coals for it. The media in the modern era only knows how to attack and criticize.