Member

Joined: 03 Jan 2008
Posts: 141
Location: Lafayette, IN

The space shuttle successfully made it to orbit a little less then a half hour ago. I watched with great anticipation during the launch, hoping that all would go well. The crew will be adding another major science module to the ISS.

I think what NASA and the world are doing with the ISS is great, but I think the true future of space travel (at least in the USA) lies with Burt Rutan and his company, Scaled Composites. Several years ago, they produced Spaceship One, which won the Ansari X-prize. Rutan and his company completed the craft on time and nearly right on budget, and without being weighed down by the governmental bureaucracy. Since they are overseen by people who share the same dream, not some ignorant lawmakers the company has placed an even greater focus on safety and ease of operation than Nasa. If I had money, I would definitely support the company.

Just my two cents....what do you all think about the shuttle program and/or the Scaled Composites company and their efforts?

D.

Member

Joined: 15 May 2006
Posts: 728
Location: West Lafayette, IN

I think the shuttle program is important, but I definitely think the current program is inadequate with today's technology and safety. The system in place needs an overhaul.

Member

Joined: 29 Jul 2007
Posts: 16
Location: Carmel

The shuttle program is going to be mothballed in 2010, and NASA is developing a program much like the Apollo program. I toured KSC last year, and saw some new technology NASA is developing. Pretty cool stuff!

~Kirok