[Dr. Zoo]

I think they will discuss every possibility. That's why I think right now, the FBI has begun a background check on every single person that was involved with the Columbia upgrade this past year.

The speculation of external terrorism is of course not the issue. That IMO is wht they are discounting.

rintense, let's hope political correctness doesn't rear it's ugly head and they investigate every possibility.

It is premature to hear the reports that say there is no indication of terrorism. From what little that is known now, there is also no indication it is not terrorism, ie they know almost nothing at this time.

It always bothers me when they prematurely rule things in or out even before they have any information one way or another.

The process they were going through at the time was very delicate manauvering considering how exact the process of re-entry is and is probably the most dangerous part of the return, and they routinely loose radio contact during this particual time. The concern began when contact did not return.

This going to be a long process IMO. Speculation is pretty all over the place at this time.

[rintense]

Agreed. They have to look at every single possibility. And that means going down some roads that may look tin foilish.

[bootless]

It always bothers me when they prematurely rule things in or out even before they have any information one way or another.

Exactly.

[FITZ]

It always bothers me when they prematurely rule things in or out even before they have any information one way or another.

That bothers me too. In this case, I don't see how it could be terrorism, it would almost have to have come from within NASA if it were and that would seem very unlikely. I think though they lead to more speculation when they rule things out before ANY investigation has been made, it's almost an insult on people's intelligence when they claim things before they know anything yet.

[CyberAnt]

I've heard several people state that there is no indication that there was any attack FROM THE GROUND.

I think that can be pretty sure - considering their range and flight speed.

I don't think they have ruled out any other form of terrorism at this point - and I haven't heard anyone say that specifically. They just aren't talking about it.