NASA Chief expresses optimism, concern with U.S. space program

By Dick Pelletier

     At a recent Space Transportation Association meeting, NASA Administrator Michael Griffin discussed the possibilities for America’s manned space program, which he believes could be completed in the following timeframe:

1. Finish construction on the International Space Station by 2010.

2. Develop and test a new spacecraft, the Crew Exploration Vehicle, by 2014.

3. Return to the moon by 2020 and develop a sustained presence there by 2024.

4. Land the first humans on Mars by 2030 and begin the groundwork for a permanent Martian colony.

     Original moon settlers will be scientists working to unlock geological secrets and establish an observatory. Later, entrepreneurs will arrive to build solar stations that beam energy back to Earth, and mine resources such as Helium-3, an ingredient used in fusion technology.

     "With this outpost," NASA's Scott Horowitz says, "we can learn to use the moon’s natural resources to live off the land and make preparations for the long trip to Mars."

     But Griffin voiced concern that Congress recently signed into law the $550 billion Consolidated Appropriations Act which stipulates that “no funds appropriated in 2008 shall be used for any research, development, or demonstration activities related exclusively to the human exploration of Mars."

     "This provision calls into question the fundamental rationale for spaceflight research,” Griffin said, "and I hope that it will be abandoned in future years. The development and exploitation of space has, so far, been accomplished in a fashion that can best be described as 'all government, all the time'.

     That's not the way the American frontier was developed, it’s not the way we excelled in aviation, or the way our economy works, and it should not be applied to space research either. So, as a matter of deliberate policy, we need to take a more positive approach with our first steps on this stairway to space.

     If we are to become a spacefaring nation, we must learn to survive in hostile places. The moon is an important stepping stone along that path; an alien world, yet one that is only a three-day journey from Earth. And Mars will be an even greater milestone in America’s quest to explore the cosmos. I think that we should all want this – for our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

     Throughout history, great nations have been at the forefront of the frontiers of their time. Britain became great in the 17th century through its exploration and mastery of the seas. America’s greatness in the 20th century stemmed from its domination of the air. For future generations, the frontier will be space.

     Other countries will explore the cosmos, whether the U.S. does or not. And those will be Earth's great nations in the years and centuries to come. I believe America should look to its future; and consider what that future will be like if we choose not to be a spacefaring nation."

     Physicist Stephen Hawking recently warned; "It’s important for humans to spread out into space for survival of the species. Life on Earth could be wiped out by a nuclear war, runaway virus, or some other danger." Mr. Hawking, NASA hears you!

     Get ready to enjoy our amazing "magical future" in space.

This article appeared in various print publications and on-line blogs. Comments always welcome.