[snarkpup]

On a related note, the NASA TV network is now available 24/7 in DirecTV's main lineup (on channel 376). I believe it's also available with Dish Network.

It was apparently moved onto the main satellite a few days ago; so you do not need the multi-satellite dish (contrary to what it says in a recent channel listing). The basic dish is OK.

[Frank_Discussion]

Please ping the usual suspects, Kevin. Whole lotta shakin' goin' on!

[RightWhale]

Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC).

The mere thought of Federally Funded anything irks those same persons who fought John Quincy Adams' plan for the interstate post road. No, we should follow the third-world free market system. You want the boulder out of the dirt road, move it yourself.

[Young Werther]

NASA should remain focused on Science, Space and Aviation. The Moon and Mars initiatives are exploration and exploitation activities. Once Lewis and Clarke returned from their missions, it became the task of commerce and settlements that focused our energies on the new frontier. The Northwest Territories Act and the likes of Johnny Appleseed, (read Burt Rutan), brought the farmers, railroads and industry to the new territories.

The Moon and Mars and the whole near Earth territory should be guided by these historical precedences. the Deprtment of Commerce, Energy and Transportation should be focused on opening up the High Frontier. O'Neil and Roddenberry had a better vision. Interestingly, the NASA tribute to Ronald Reagan included his speech when he, in 1984, espoused the establishment of a permanent presence in space within the next 10 years. Of course it's 20 years later and we're still not there!

As we develop private funding and private entrepreneurship we shall go where no man has gone before!

[KevinDavis]

Space Ping! This is the Space Ping List! Let me know if you want on or off this list!