June 3, 2004

“Since 1969, America has led the world into space and it is time to renew that vision,” Hall said.  “Our ventures into space not only keep America at the forefront of exploration and innovation, but they also are vital to our economy and our national security.”

Hall explained that he wants to return the Space Shuttle to flight and complete the International Space Station before building a new Crew Exploration Vehicle to send humans to the moon, Mars, and beyond.  But, he stressed that we need to temper the thrust to Mars with economic realism.  “While people are more interested today in being able to make a trip to the grocery store than go to Mars, we can agree that this is the time to initiate a sensible investment in planning and carrying out our long-term mission,” Hall remarked.   

            “When we return to space, whether on the Space Shuttle or the Crew Exploration Vehicle, we need to do all we can to protect the lives of the men and women who fly our space missions.  Last year, I authored an amendment that was included in the NASA funding bill that calls for $15 million to be used to solicit the best concepts from the aerospace industry and elsewhere to improve Shuttle crew survivability.  It is critical that NASA continue to improve survivability by making modifications for the crew—such as cabin thermal/structural hardening, improved flight suits, and search and rescue capability,” Hall insisted.   

            America’s space program continues to be an engine for our national economy.  “Last year, space exploration brought over $3.7 billion in funds to universities and businesses in Texas alone,” Hall remarked.  Additionally, experiments conducted on the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station expand health research and move us toward cures for some of our most threatening diseases.  “From the development of MRI technology to microgravity experiments that help fight infections and cure osteoporosis, the scientific partnerships between NASA and American universities and companies ensure our nation’s viability and competitiveness, and help drive our economy,” Hall said.

            “We owe it to future generations of Americans and the men and women who have kept the space mission alive for four decades to continue to forge ahead,” Hall remarked.  “Congress needs to approve NASA’s Vision for Space Exploration so that we can continue this journey, secure our national interest, and fulfill America’s destiny in space.”