Exploration
Space program is still critical

People continue to mourn for the Columbia crew and their families in what is the biggest American tragedy since Sept. 11. However, it would be an even greater tragedy if those arguing to cut funding for space programs get their way.

If that happened, all those who died on the Columbia and other space missions sacrificed their lives in vain and their accomplishments meant nothing.

In fact, the families of the Columbia’s crew wrote a statement urging space exploration to continue.

“Although we grieve deeply, as do the families of Apollo 1 and Challenger before us, the bold exploration of space must go on.

“And once the root cause of this tragedy is found and corrected, the legacy of Columbia must carry on for the benefit of our children and yours.”
Hopefully, President Bush will help pass NASA’s request for a budget increase to avoid possible cutbacks on space shuttle safety.

These missions are not just about flying around in space and taking pictures of Saturn’s rings. There were more than 80 experiments conducted during Columbia’s 16-day flight.
Former senator and astronaut John Glenn said Sunday on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the crew was working on techniques to prevent the spread and transfer of cancer cells in the body.

The long-term benefits of these missions may be the most valuable of all. Such missions study the threats of asteroid strikes, global warning and global terrorism.

Space exploration still holds many mysteries and it’s up to the space program to unlock them.