Kerry Campaign Representative Spreading False Shuttle Rumors

www.nasawatch.com ^ | October 21, 2004 | Kieth Cowing

[Names Ash Housewares]

Stories continue to circulate around Washington that NASA is planning to limit the number of remaining space shuttle flights to 10 and that it is considering even further cuts to the Shuttle program. The stories can be traced back to representatives of the Kerry campaign - the most notable being Lori Garver from DFI International. Garver is going around town telling people that she has spoken with people inside OMB and NASA and that there is a plan under development by the Bush Administration to limit shuttle flights.

There is one problem with Garver's story: it is not true.

[Boundless]

Sounds like another reverse projection hoax,
like the draft.

The likely truth is that Kerry would never have the
nerve to authorize return to flight. He is way far
too risk-averse. Under Kerry, there would be zero
flights.

[singfreedom]

My Lord, is there no limit to the things these Dim Dummies won't lie about? Even NASA becomes a target for their prevarications!

[ken5050]

and further, DYK that Bush is going to order that ALL the stem cells be put aboard the shuttle.....

[WoodstockCat]

there is a plan under development by the Bush Administration to limit shuttle flights

y'know..until we figure out exactly why the last one didn't come back and what we can do about in-space repairs if anything, I'd call this a good use of taxpayer resources.

[feedback doctor]

DFI International: info@dfi-intl.com

[newzhawk]

The people here in Cocoa Beach are Bush people - Kerry whined about Space Center fixing his photos - what a whiner

[Names Ash Housewares]

"until we figure out exactly why the last one didn't come back"

They did. The external tank foam problem is fixed. The return to flight mission will have the ISS as a lifeboat. And another shuttle will be prepared to fly a rescue mission on short notice. An in orbit repair of the same damage that Columbia had is not possible. This time there will be options and a very thorough inspection in orbit. Elieen Collins will command. I have the utmost confidence in her if there was any question of safety to say something. This is America at it best. We are not afraid to take risks. And you must be willing to accept the price of that risk in the name of exploration.

[skinkinthegrass]

...and Burt Rutan's efforts (SpaceShipOne/Two) may be causing some concern @ NASA, too. I'm not saying NASA should scrap the shuttle, just get more imput from the private sector.

[Names Ash Housewares]

Private endeavours are all part of the equation also. I am member of the X-Prize foundation, I fully support these folks. I want my ride too!