posted 02-06-2007 02:12 PM               

National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Since 2001, the Administration:

• Announced a bold, new vision for human and robotic exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond;
  
• Began development of a new human spaceflight vehicle, the Orion, and a new rocket, the Ares I, to extend human exploration of the solar system;
  
• Continued assembly of the International Space Station, a multinational research laboratory in orbit around the Earth;
  
• Partnered with the private sector to develop commercial transportation to the International Space Station; and
  
• Successfully initiated 30 robotic spacecraft missions to explore the solar system and universe and to improve understanding of our own planet.

• Prioritizes development of the Orion and Ares I exploration vehicles;
  
• Provides for the completion of the International Space Station;
  
• Continues flying the Space Shuttle safely to complete the Space Station, while keeping it on the path to retirement by 2010, ultimately saving taxpayers nearly $4 billion per year that will be applied to bolder exploration missions;
  
• Supports a strong program of robotic exploration of the Moon to increase understanding of our nearest neighbor in space and to prepare for future human expeditions;
  
• Sustains a robust science program to expand understanding of the Earth, the solar system, and the universe; and
  
• Focuses the Aeronautics program on long-term research of broad benefit to the Nation.

------------------
Scott Schneeweis