Local Association Recognizes Goddard Leadership in Earth and Space Science (cont'd)

	NASA Administrator, Sean O'Keefe speaking at NASM event

He was followed by NASA Administrator O'Keefe, who referred to NASA's mission statement in explaining the goals of NASA. The administrator also spoke of past successes such as Hubble and future missions to include Mars spacecrafts Rover and Opportunity that should reach their destination to begin 2004.

"We recognize that NASA is a unique organization and Sean O'Keefe is the right man for the job," said Representative Mollohan. He spoke of pass challenges for NASA and the need to continue human space flight. "We recognized the science of NASA has uncovered some remarkable answers to questions about the universe," said Mollohan.

Goddard's Center Director then gave the introduction for the keynote speaker of the evening. He thanked all for attending and spoke of a new relationship with the National Federation of the Blind and their interest in the NASA produced 'Touch The Universe' book for the blind.

"We've had speakers in the past to come and educate us but tonight we have a speaker that will inspire us," said Diaz. "Ed, come and inspire us."

Photos by Chris Gunn/293
Dr. Edward Weiler, NASA associate admin-istrator for Space Science gives presentation.

Wielder began his talk speaking of how so many had been inspired in the 60's during NASA's trek to the moon with the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo programs. He stated that many of those inspired kids now work for NASA. Weiler talked of his personal thoughts about exploring the universe and what we need to accomplish.

Entitled "A Walk Through The Universe", Weiler gave an overview about the beginning of the universe and how it continues to evolve to include the formation of planets, stars and galaxies. "Hubble proved that planet formation is pretty common," said Weiler. He explained the Living With A Star Program and how it has helped us to better understand our sun and some of the effects it has on our lives here.

Weiler spoke of the basic components for life to exist and presented the possibility that life could exist on Mars and maybe other places. He spoke of future projects and the need for a different propulsion system that will allow space travel outside of our solar system.

"The greatest discover that could be made in the 21st century is to prove that life does exist," said Weiler. "This can only happen once and would be by far the greatest discovery of this century," he said.

As members of the crowd left the building that symbolizes our national recognition of past air and space travel it was unclear what accomplishments Goddard will celebrate next year. What everyone seemed to agree upon was that the speaker of the evening had inspired by reflecting on past accomplishments and questioning the possibility for future discoveries.

It was almost as if he was reminding us of an inspirational statement that was made some years ago by a now famous visionary. "It is difficult to say what is impossible, for the dream of yesterday is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow," Dr. Robert H. Goddard.