Sunday, March 24, 2013

For All Mankind

The United States used to dream big. With the technology NASA needed to send men to the moon, we as a country derived great benefit from the government funded program. It led us to become the technological leader.

Last night as I was watchingFor All Mankind, I couldn't help but reflect on the difference 50 years have made since President Kennedy gave his speech on to the moon:

"No single space project in this period will be more impressive to mankind, or more important for the long-range exploration of space; and none will be so difficult or expensive to accomplish," Kennedy said.

The president cautioned Congress that the cost would be significant, more than $9 billion in 1960s dollars. Congress accepted the challenge.

Back then, Congress saw the benefits of the space program. Sadly, the same cannot be said for the Congress we are saddled with today. The current science committee is filled with people like Representative Paul Broun who doesn't believe in the evolution, embryology, or the Big Bang Theory. He calls them "lies to keep him away from his savior".

I wouldn't be surprised if he would say men didn't go to the moon because the moon is made of cheese. NASA is still strong and Curiosity is still exploring in spite of Congress.

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