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NASA Panel Says ISS Cuts Hurt Science

Posted by timothy on from the don't-remember-asking-to-pay-for-this dept.

medcalf writes: "The AP reports that the International Space Station, as proposed, is incapable of doing much meaningful scientific research, and that NASA should thus stop characterizing the program as 'science-driven.' Factors listed in support of the recommendation are insufficient crew, lack of certain vital equipment and insufficient resupply missions. Makes me proud of spending $30 billion in tax money -- hey, isn't that about enough for a manned Mars mission? Perhaps a reevaluation of our goals in space, and what we are prepared to risk for the money, would be in order?" The AP article is summarizing the conclusions of a 23-member panel, which finds the current aim of a "core-complete" station too slender a justification of the past and current expenditures in the name of science.

4 of 289 comments (clear)

  1. Rename Discovery as SponsorShip by Kaz+Riprock · · Score: 4, Funny

    It's time to slap a logo on the ISS and turn a buck. It could be Hershey's K-ISS or Sw-ISS M-ISS. Anything to put some money into the system in the name of science. It's not like anyone should be affronted by the idea of corporate sponsorship and science intermingling. It happens all the time. Check any biology lab or methods section of the scientific papers that come out these days and you're bound to find someone shilling for some company's enzyme or centrifuge. As long as the sponsor is just happy having their picture on NasaTV and isn't making decisions on food supplements or spacesuit fashion, I say go for it.

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    Mordor...a magical, mythical land where women are more rare than dragons--but where every man would rather find a dragon
  2. Shit 30 billion? by Jonny+Ringo · · Score: 4, Funny

    Man, you know how many beers that could have gotten me at the baseball game? ...Like 4.

  3. Science Officer? by anonymous_wombat · · Score: 4, Funny
    Should the international space station have a full-time science officer?

    Yes, preferably one with large breasts.

  4. How To Save Mars Mission Money by Tablizer · · Score: 4, Funny


    I got an idea to save money. Have a Mars Survivor TV show. All the participants sign away any death compensation rights.

    That way we don't have to spend lots to make the ship extra safe, and the TV ad revenue for the show helps pay for it.

    Plus, it will make great drama.

    "Dammit! I'm leaving this tin can! I can't stand you four. You selfish b8stards only want....."

    "Wait!!!, don't open that air lock without a......"

    (Swoooooooooooosh)

    "Nevermind"

    -T-

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    Table-ized A.I.