NASA on Wednesday unveiled the design of a space launching system capable of propelling manned spacecraft far outside the Earths orbit to pave the way for deeper space exploration -- including expeditions to asteroids and Mars.
NASA officials are optimistic the system will be operational by the end of 2017.
The next chapter in Americas space exploration story is being written, right here, right now, NASA administrator Charles Bolden said in a video released on Wednesday. "President Obama challenged us to be bold and dream big, and that's exactly what we are doing at NASA. While I was proud to fly on the space shuttle, kids today can now dream of one day walking on Mars."
Fueled by liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, the rocket will be able to lift 70 metric tons when it is first launched. NASA officials are hopeful that the rocket will eventually be able to carry up to 130 metric tons. This flexibility, NASA said, was one of the chief strengths of the new rocket's design, which incorporates components of the space shuttle and Constellation programs.
NASA officials played up the economic impact of the rocket program.
"This launch system will create good-paying American jobs, ensure continued U.S. leadership in space, and inspire millions around the world," Bolden said.
"NASA has been making steady progress toward realizing the president's goal of deep space exploration, while doing so in a more affordable way," NASA deputy administrator Lori Garver said in a statement.
Florida Republican U.S. Rep. Sandy Adams, who represents parts of the Space Coast that have been hurt economically by the end of the space shuttle
program, said she was pleased about the announcement but said Congress needs more information, including a timetable.
Finally, after months of wrangling and delays regarding the future of deep space exploration and the design of a future vehicle for NASA, there is a decision, Adams said in a statement released Wednesday afternoon. While I wish this announcement had been made over eight months ago in compliance with the NASA Authorization Act, I am pleased to see we finally have a design for the Space Launch System.
As NASA turns over operation of the National Lab portion of the Space Station to the Florida-based Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, and the transportation of cargo and crew to the private commercial industry, NASA can at long last focus on achieving what my constituents and I believe is such an important role:space exploration, Adams added.
It is time for NASA to give Congress a schedule -- a hard and fast timeline -- so American taxpayers have no doubt how their money is being spent on this effort. The days of unaccountable calendar and cost overruns are over, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House to hold NASA accountable for the future of human space flight and job creation on Floridas Space Coast.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or at (850) 727-0859.
