"Next Step In Space" Calls Launch A "Proof Point" In NASA's Vision

Next Step in Space, a growing coalition of businesses and organizations dedicated to scientific advancement and increasing our understanding of the Earth and our solar system through the expansion of human space flight, has heralded SpaceX’s successful test flight of Falcon 9 as an important milestone and proof point toward NASA’s vision for an expanded private sector role in commercial crew transportation to low-earth orbit (LEO).

In case you haven't heard, the 180-foot Falcon 9 rocket carried the human-rated Dragon capsule 160 miles above the earth on Friday, June 4 completing its maiden voyage successfully and clearing the way for future trips to the international space station later this year and in 2011.

“The successful launch of the Falcon 9 was a perfect way of inaugurating NASA’s new vision and direction for space,” said former FAA Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation Patti Grace Smith. “As we work together to build a new space economy based on a commitment to exploration and innovation in space, we will create jobs that will help fuel our leadership position in science and engineering. Space is not only a destination, but a platform for launching new and innovative applications and services - applications in advanced communications, environmental monitoring, biotechnology research, renewable energy and national defense. The new space economy promises to be a catalyst for job creation and economic development that will help solidify U.S. leadership in the world. Last week's successful Falcon 9 launch is just the beginning.”

“The innovative spirit of Space-X escaped the gravitational pull of the earth last week as the Falcon 9 lifted off," said General Lance W. Lord, retired four-star U.S. Air Force general and former commander of Air Force Space Command. "More importantly though, the Falcon 9 proved it is indeed possible to escape the forces of inertia that exist in the space launch business.”

In April of this year, NASA outlined an ambitious effort to foster the development of path-breaking technologies; increase the number, scope, and pace of manned and unmanned space missions; make human spaceflight safer and more efficient; and help create thousands of jobs.

Frank DiBello, President of Space Florida, remarked, “SpaceX is an innovator and a prime example of the type of company that will make the next-generation U.S. Space Program globally competitive and sustainable. We are proud that the SpaceX launch was a success and recognize that the Space Economy is diverse. We are committed to expanding our role with companies like SpaceX to create jobs and economic prosperity both in Florida and beyond.”

FMI: www.nextstepinspace.com