[net.space] Colonies in Space and NASA

BRUC@MIT-ML@sri-unix.UUCP (07/18/83)

From:  Robert E. Bruccoleri <BRUC @ MIT-ML>

It's my impression that NASA has not funded or otherwise involved
itself with pursuit the colonization of space since 1977, the date of
the last space manufacturing and industrialization conference with G.
K. O'Neill.  Certainly, there hasn't been any mention of colonies from
NASA in connection with the shuttle. Does anyone have any information
counter to my impression?

If not, why is NASA avoiding the topic? Granted that the colonization
of space is a difficult topic for some to deal with, but wouldn't it
make more sense for NASA to try educate people and politicians that
this is a great idea? For that matter, why is NASA so timid in the
political arena?