Couple of things:

Seth is correct: we need to support NASA. The inventions and advances that have come out of that place are almost innumerable.

Yeah, it's a 70s design, but it's not 70s hardware, nor is it 70s computers or hydraulics, or engines, or rockets. Also, do you see ANYONE else in the WORLD come up with any better ideas/ways of exploring space? It may be 70s design, but the space shuttle is still the best space exploration tool anyone has.

NASA is already working on the next generation space vehicles; actually, it has been doing that for a few years now. These things, however, take time. And, we're going back to the moon. In the meantime, NASA must meet the commitments it has made to build and maintain the international space station. Who else can do it in a safer manner? The Russians? Certainly not the Europeans.

Give NASA a break. It's the one government organization that needs our support, are deserves our respect. They are trying their best, and these are incredibly bright people.

Juan

__________________
Whenever I text "Barack," my phone suggests the word "Capable." I guess my my phone IS pretty smart.