Guest: Robert Zimmerman. Topics: space policy, NASA, human spaceflight, Hubble, SpaceX, LRO. Bob Zimmerman returned to The Space Show for this news update. He started the discussion with an evaluation of current space policy based on his perception of Obama's interest in space and the delay in appointing a new NASA Administrator. We talked about the human spaceflight program, science missions, engineering research and planetary research and returning to the Moon as a priority. Bob told us about his limited but positive personal experience with the designated NASA Administrator, Charles Bolden, Jr. He also gave us his impression of the current Augustine Panel hearings and what he expects from them when the panel concludes its work and issues its report by the end of August 2009. Bottom line to Bob, he expects more and more delays in deciding what our space program will be and what it will look like. We also talked about various space telescopes being planned and in operation, not just from the U.S. but form Europe as well. He went into some detail about the recent Hubble repair mission. Bob brought us current with the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) and as a result of a listener question, explained the orbital dynamics of its planned four orbital loops to finally impact the Moon. Bob fielded many questions about NASA, the budget process, Congress and its funding of NASA. Bob also gave his view of what would be unfolding in space for the rest of the year and the near future. For example, he thinks Shuttle will be extended and all manufacturing lines that have been cancelled will be started up again. This is in response to the gap that exists and the need to rely on space transportation to Station from other nations. Listen to his comments and see what you think. If you have questions or comments for Bob Zimmerman, you can find his email address through his website, http://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze3cxxp/zimbib.htm or you can forward it to me at drspace@thespaceshow.com.
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