Reinvigorating NASA: A Better Investment than Space Force
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Chapter 1: The Proposal of Space Force
Many Americans are now familiar with Vice President Mike Pence's declaration regarding the establishment of a new military division: the United States Space Force. The concept, initially introduced by President Trump, has faced significant skepticism and criticism, and rightly so.
This week, the president approved a substantial defense budget of $717 billion. In justifying the creation of the Space Force, he pointed to similar actions taken by nations like China.
However, one major flaw in this initiative is the existence of the U.S. Air Force, which already encompasses space operations through the U.S. Air Force Space Command. This division is responsible for managing space defense systems and includes the Space and Missile Systems Center located in California.
According to Pence, the White House's proposal would launch a new entity with an initial budget of $8 billion over five years, but the Space Force would inevitably require significantly more funding from Congress.
Not only is the establishment of a Space Force unnecessary, but it would also divert critical financial resources that could be better utilized to support NASA, America's original space agency.
Section 1.1: The Importance of NASA
NASA's contributions to technology and scientific progress are invaluable. It's hard to overemphasize how space exploration has led to innovations that many of us rely on daily. In fact, you likely used a NASA invention today—perhaps even while reading this text.
Innovations such as the computer mouse, compact cameras now found in smartphones, athletic footwear, water purification systems, modern insulation, and even baby formula emerged from the challenges NASA scientists faced in the realm of space travel.
Subsection 1.1.1: NASA's Role in Global Collaboration
NASA has evolved from its Cold War-era focus and now engages in cooperative projects with various international agencies, such as the European Space Agency and Russia's Roscosmos. The International Space Station (ISS) exemplifies this global collaboration, bringing together scientists from 18 different nations.
Section 1.2: Fostering Hope and Inspiration
Remember the dreams of childhood when adults asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” While many children aspired to be firefighters or doctors, a significant number expressed their desire to become astronauts. Even if not all pursued careers at NASA, the allure of space exploration has inspired generations.
In a world often overshadowed by negativity, encouraging future generations to embrace optimism and curiosity about the cosmos seems far more beneficial than militarizing space.
Chapter 2: Redirecting Resources to NASA
The proposed budget for NASA in 2018 stands at $19.1 billion—just over double the initial funding earmarked for the Space Force. Imagine the advancements we could achieve if that $8 billion were redirected to NASA and the ISS. Investing in these areas would surely foster greater international cooperation and peace rather than escalating militarization of space.
Originally published at Care2.com on Aug. 22, 2018.