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Member

Registered: 2003-02-02

Posts: 584

Re: NASA and aeronautics

I have been hearing many complaints (especially on NASAwatch.com) about the de-funding of aeronautics research at NASA.  Granted,most of the negative comments come from NASA's aeronautics-related employees who stand to lose big from the downsizing.  I happen to have mixed feelings about it.

On one hand, it's sad to see historic facilities like Ames and Langley being put on the chopping block, with the possibility that they could totally disappear in the near future.  There is plenty of room for aeronautics research and America's leadership in this field is being challenged.  NASA needs to take the lead.

At the same time, the US has a robust aviation industry that is capable of conducting its own research.  Must taxpayer dollars be used for research that will directly benefit the "three stooges" of the aerospace industry?

I believe the solution is for NASA to reduce its aeronautics workforce but pursue more cooperative research with the industry that relies on private funding.  There is a need for a National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics again, to symbolically emphasize our commitment to aeronautics even as we pursue the Vision for Space Exploration.  NACA and the industry should cooperate on the aeronautical advances that will bring about scramjets and more efficient airliners.

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Who needs Michael Griffin when you can have Peter Griffin?  Catch "Family Guy" Sunday nights on FOX.

SpaceNut

Administrator

From: New Hampshire

Registered: 2004-07-22

Posts: 29,017

Re: NASA and aeronautics

Well since the FAA is in charge of planes, why not put all of the research facilities under that agency. Using there unique abilities and tools to better the industry.
Aeronautics is not space flight though scramjets border on both. Do passengers really care if they can go from say loudon to NY in a scramjet in what ever time it could achieve, probably not so IMO then that item is for space flight or the war department but in either case probably not the commercial market.

SpaceNut

Administrator

From: New Hampshire

Registered: 2004-07-22

Posts: 29,017

Re: NASA and aeronautics

SUBCOMMITTEE TO EXAMINE FUTURE OF AERONAUTICS AT NASA

Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics – Hearing webcast page
“The Future of Aeronautics at NASA”
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
2318 Rayburn House Office Building

The budget proposes significant changes in NASA’s aeronautic programs, including, over the next five years, dramatic cuts in funding and staffing, closure of facilities, and redirection of research priorities. NASA argues that these proposed changes would enable NASA to focus on the highest priority areas in aeronautics while freeing up agency funds for space exploration programs, the agency’s highest priority.

10 page Hearing Charter