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The Device NASA Is Leaving Behind

Posted by CmdrTaco on

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.""

3 of 163 comments (clear)

  1. What's that item!? by FeebleOldMan · · Score: 5, Funny

    Argh someone new please RTFA and quickly post what THAT item is! The suspense is killing me!

    1. Re:What's that item!? by WallaceAndGromit · · Score: 5, Funny

      A large wooden rabbit.

      --
      Name: Mr. Anon E Mouse; SSN: 555-55-5555
  2. Re: The government at its' finest! by Black+Parrot · · Score: 5, Insightful

    If NASA were private, and actually had to respond to stockholders, and had to produce science discoveries in order to stay afloat, NASA wouldn't be making stupid political decisions like this. Of course not: it would be making stupid decisions to make its next quarterly report look good instead.

    Some people's faith in businesses is as naive as others' faith in governments.
    --
    Sheesh, evil *and* a jerk. -- Jade