Finally
the other shoe dropped. As was feared, Constellation Program, complete with the return of astronauts to the moon in 2020, has died.
The new budget for NASA, which can be read here , explains the reasons, including:
" The NASA Constellation program, which rested largely on existing technologies, was based on a vision of returning astronauts to the moon by 2010. However, the program had exceeded the budget was late, and had no innovative elements because of failure to invest in critical new technologies. Using a wide range of criteria, an independent panel determined that even if he had the money, repeat what Apollo did 50 years ago is the least attractive to space exploration, compared with potential alternatives. Moreover, attempts to pursue NASA's lunar goals are not only inadequate, but had diverted money intended for other programs such as robotic exploration, science and Earth observations. Constellation President cancels and replaces it with a fresh approach that invests in the segments of a larger effort capable of space exploration. "
At the same time, NASA have more money than before . According to its director, Charlie Bolden, a broader base of people have access to use ISS as a laboratory (university, maybe even college kids), there will be a total of 5 more shuttle missions, and new programs: NASA is partnering with commercial industry to transport astronauts and cargo to the ISS.
There will be more robotic missions. And new satellite missions to study Earth's climate change, development of robotic missions to explore the moon. Technologies to reduce emissions from aviation fuel. And a special commitment to encourage children to space exploration and science, encouraging math programs in schools.
all makes sense. I hope the elephant move with some agility. But I think the decision to return NASA to its original purpose, which is the test. The commitment to the ISS is absolutely key, we could not leave the space station adrift.
And I think that new approaches put NASA on firm ground. The agency will not be stepping on thin ice as it was happening before.