Next Step in Space applauds NASA and the new administration
for taking the next step.

Next Step in Space supports NASA's new strategy for space exploration. NASA's FY 2011 budget outlines 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. Included in his vision for NASA is a sequence of deep-space destinations matched to growing capabilities, progressing step-by-step until we are able to reach Mars.

Among the important features in the President’s plan that Next Step in Space supports
are that it:

  • Advances America's commitment to human spaceflight and exploration of the
    solar system, with bold new vision and timetable for reaching new frontiers deeper in space.
  • Increases NASA's budget by $6 billion over 5 years.
  • Leads to more than 2,500 additional jobs in Florida's Kennedy Space Center area by 2012, as compared to the prior path.
  • Begins major work on building a new heavy lift rocket sooner, with a commitment to decide in 2015 on the specific heavy-lift rocket that will take us deeper into space.
  • Initiates a vigorous new technology development and test program to increase the capabilities and reduce the cost of future exploration activities.
  • Launches a steady stream of precursor robotic exploration missions to scout locations and demonstrate technologies to increase the safety and capability of future human missions, while also providing scientific dividends.
  • Jumpstarts a new commercial space transportation industry to provide safe and efficient crew and cargo transportation to the Space Station, projected to create over 10,000 jobs nationally over the next five years.
  • And puts the space program on a more ambitious trajectory that pushes the frontiers of innovation to propel us on a new journey of innovation and discovery deeper into space.

The American economy and the future of our space program need your support now more than ever. Please take a few minutes to send your message to Congress and share your thoughts on why you support NASA's FY'11 Budget. We applaud your efforts to make a meaningful impact on America's future in space and we thank you for your support!