Quick update to NASA 2010 authorization

We continue to monitor activities on the Hill regarding the house and senate versions of NASA authorization.  The senate passed their version of NASA authorization on August 5, 2010.  There is a companion NASA authorization bill that has been approved by the House science and technology committee, but it awaits floor vote after the house has returned from recess - September 2010. A conference committee is anticipated. We continue to ask for programmatic specificity for life and physical sciences research in the final NASA authorization bill. We continue to support activities (government and non-government) that will increase student and researcher participation and increase "capabilities" in space flight activities, including ISS, and unmanned platforms. 

Dr. Robert Braun, NASA Chief Technologist posts open letter to college students

Here is an excerpt from the open letter from Dr. Robert Braun, NASA Chief Technology to college students - “As our next generation of technologists, scientists and engineers, you are this country’s future.  I look forward to seeing the great things you will bring to NASA and the Nation as you embark on technology-oriented careers.  Join us in this new endeavor. We need your innovative ideas, your passions, your dedicated efforts and your technology solutions. What future will you create?”  Here is the link to the full open letter http://nasa.gov/offices/oct/college_letter_detail.html. 

At ASGSB, we have seen many RFIs come from this office in the last two months, so it is important to stay involved. As of this writing, the pending congressional approval of FY011 budget will determine the extent to which Dr. Braun can engage students.