Why Are We Exploring Space

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Slide 1

Why Are We Exploring Space? What’s Up At NASA?

An overview of NASA’s Plans and some really cool stuff happening in a solar system near you

Slide 2

Why Do We Explore Space?

Because it’s there

Quest for knowledge

Learn about what is around us – dangers, benefits

Reap benefits of what’s around

Reap benefits of preparing for / undertaking exploration itself – technology and techniques

Survival

Quest for understanding - learn about ourselves and our place in the universe

Slide 3

Picture It …

“… a new journey of exploration of the solar system beginning with the return of humans to the Moon by the end of the next decade and leading to subsequent landings on Mars and other destinations such as near- Earth asteroids …”

Slide 4

What’s Our Plan for Space?

Fly the shuttle as safely as possible until 2010

Complete the ISS (targeting 2010) – 6-person crew by 2009

Align science, exploration, and aeronautics to support human space flight

Bring the new Crew Exploration Vehicle – CEV – on line (2010-2014)

Establish a lunar program that informs future missions to Mars and other destinations

Slide 5

Role of the ISS

Prepares for efforts on the Moon, Mars, and beyond

Understand the space environment – long duration living and working impact on astronaut health

Allows testing of new technologies, materials, robotics

Slide 6

Space Exploration Contributions

Slide 7

Sushi in Space!!!

Slide 8

What’s Our Plan for Space?

Fly the shuttle as safely as possible until 2010

Complete the ISS – 6-person crew by 2009

Align science, exploration, and aeronautics to support human space flight … 6 pieces

Bring the new Crew Exploration Vehicle – CEV - on line

Establish a lunar program that informs future missions to Mars and other destinations

Slide 9

Exploration Goals

Study Earth from Space to advance scientific understanding and meet societal needs

Earth Observing System

Understand Earth’s systems and its response to natural or human-induced change

Improve prediction of climate, weather, and natural hazards