Presidents -- United States -- Messages; United States -- Politics and government -- Sources
The Administration's space policy reaffirmed the separation of military
space systems and the open civil space program, and at the same time,
provided new guidance on technology transfer between the civil and military
programs. The civil space program centers on three basic tenets: First, our
space policy will reflect a balanced strategy of applications, science, and
technology development. Second, activities will be pursued when they can be
uniquely or more efficiently accomplished in space. Third, a premature
commitment to a high challenge, space-engineering initiative of the
complexity of Apollo is inappropriate. As the Shuttle development phases
down, however, there will be added flexibility to consider new space
applications, space science and new space exploration activities.
--Technology Development. The Shuttle dominates our technology development
effort and correctly so. It represents one of the most sophisticated
technological challenges ever undertaken, and as a result, has encountered
technical problems. Nonetheless, the first manned orbital flight is now
scheduled for March, 1981. I have been pleased to support strongly the
necessary funds for the Shuttle throughout my Administration.
--Space Applications. Since 1972, the U.S. has conducted experimental
civil remote sensing through Landsat satellites, thereby realizing many
successful applications. Recognizing this fact, I directed the
implementation of an operational civil land satellite remote sensing
system, with the operational management responsibility in Commerce's
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In addition, because ocean
observations from space can meet common civil and military data
requirements, a National Oceanic Satellite System has been proposed as a
major FY 1981 new start.
--Space Science Exploration. The goals of this Administration's policy in
space science have been to: (1) continue a vigorous program of planetary
exploration to understand the origin and evolution of the solar system; (2)
utilize the space telescope and free-flying satellites to usher in a new
era of astronomy; (3) develop a better understanding of the sun and its
interaction with the terrestrial environment; and (4) utilize the Shuttle
and Spacelab to conduct basic research that complements earth-based life
science investigations.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
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