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The Device NASA Is Leaving Behind
iminplaya writes "After years of delays, NASA hopes to launch this week a European-built laboratory that will greatly expand the research capability of the international space station. Although some call it a milestone, the launch has focused new attention on the space agency's earlier decision to back out of plans to send up a different, $1.5 billion device — one that many scientists contend would produce far more significant knowledge. "...it would be a true international disgrace if this instrument ends up as a museum piece that never is used.""
Let's set the facts straight here: NASA lost challenger in 1987, long before this promise was made. NASA's garage is hardly empty, it still has three serviceable shuttles: Atlantis, Discovery, and Endeavor. So let's try your story again with the facts straight:
You promise your friend a rise to work since he can't afford a car. The next day you get into a wreck and total one of your four cars. When your neighbor shows up to get the ride you promised, you tell him you can't take him because his added weight increases your braking distance and chance of being in an accident, since you don't want to risk any of your three remaining cars.
Suddenly I think the friend should be punching you for being such a jerk.