The problem and Downfall of LUNOX is there high cost
Yes Johnson Space Center envision LUNOX as Multinational effort, like using "Energia" boosters but that imploded as Russia abandon the project.
Means NASA had to build Shuttle-C and Advance Shuttle (better Solid Booster and Orbiter improvement) next to that new Hardware needed for Lunar landing.
and that cost billions, even more as NASA spend on ISS
But let assume the impossible happen and Capitol Hill politicians have a "flash of genius" and give NASA the Money for LUNOX.
Around 2005 has NASA a small Lunar outpost with 4 astronauts with 45 days mission time.
what next ?
NASA could launch further Lunar Outpost after first one
Or they can use Launch infrastructure for Semi Mars Direct mission
But there another hurdle the Finance crisis of 2008, would the President & Capitol Hill pull the plug out LUNOX and trow the Money in that black hole the US banks created ?