ajs@hpfcla.UUCP (02/10/86)
> Yes, I was horrified at the disaster. However, I am bothered by the > fact that the entire country seems to think this is the worst disaster > in history. ...I just wish to be realistic about this. OK, let's be realistic. If the investigation is not handled well, the net result could be a long-term reduction of interest in and funding for the space program. This in turn could well affect the entire future history of our species. A hundred years from now, if we survive to look back, this one disaster could be a major turning point for the worse -- one of the worst disasters in history -- but let's hope not. We need to expand off this planet soon if we are to colonize space at all. VERY soon, in a geologic time scale. ____________ Long as I'm posting, here's a question. I read that NASA can't accept contributions for specific uses. Why is it illegal? I'm tempted to write some congresscritters and ask them to introduce legislation to the contrary, and urge other people (like you, gentle reader) to do it too. NASA is an unusual government agency because it has many affectionate followers, who would vote with their wallets if they could, to enhance certain programs. The actual contributions might not be significant, but they could count heavily as a representation of "the people's wishes". Sounds like a fine way for "the Gov't" to get both cash and feedback. Why not? (Please respond if you KNOW, and post your response, thanks!) Alan Silverstein