Goodbye Atlantis.

**Blakeman** · 05-26-10, 08:06 AM

It logged 120 million miles. Sad to see our space program taking a step backwards.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...=moreheadlines

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_Shuttle_Atlantis

**K0nTANK3Rous** · 05-26-10, 08:13 AM

It's now in the hands of the Russians.

..Space, the final frontier...very sad indeed.

**Alundil** · 05-26-10, 11:23 AM

Agreed - sad indeed. Anira and I got to listen to Dr. Bobby Satcher speak a few weeks ago about his time in space on the 3rd to last mission. It was a great presentation and we really enjoyed it. Shame that the funding decisions are so screwy.

**SapiensErus** · 05-26-10, 12:23 PM

Pssshhh.. that thing is ancient! Let 'em have it. We have been needing to build some new craft for a couple of decades.

Now to find some money for that...

**Alundil** · 05-26-10, 12:31 PM

Originally Posted by SoySoldier

Pssshhh.. that thing is ancient! Let 'em have it. We have been needing to build some new craft for a couple of decades.

Now to find some money for that...

Exactly - it is ancient, no question. But, is that supposed to be the Marie Antoinette response (there is no bread) "So let them eat cake?"

**Consultant** · 05-26-10, 12:36 PM

Time to go...$174 Billion spent. And we got Velcro.

Awesome.

**Alundil** · 05-26-10, 12:43 PM

Originally Posted by Consultant

Time to go...$174 Billion spent. And we got Velcro.

Awesome.

LOL

http://spaceplace.nasa.gov/en/kids/spinoffs2.shtml (a bit "kid-like" but that might be good for some of you)
Try that link - has info on several things that have become possible due to the space program in some form or fashion

**WileECyte** · 05-26-10, 12:52 PM

Only 2 shuttle missions left... One in September and one in November. Still hoping to make it to Florida to see a launch. The current administration wants to privatize the space program. Perhaps they'll sell the shuttles to someone who will continue to fly them.