the goal that the Committee has set is to get out beyond low-Earth orbit, that NASA ought to be exploring the heavens with the human space program.

I have been amazed as I have watched this entire space team knowing that the Space Shuttle is likely to come to an end.

It is clear to me that this Nation could afford a strong human spaceflight program. It is simply a question of priority.

I will not ascribe that to the President.

As your committee discussed these intangible benefits, no doubt you noted also some of the tangible benefits.

So you are talking early 2020s you could have Ares V Lite ready.

I think, Mr. Chairman, I better provide that for the record.

to eliminate the gap or significantly reduce it would have a significant negative impact on the long-term exploration program.

What was the Committee's thinking on promoting the development of on-orbit refueling?

the President is going to have to answer the question whether or not the cost of human space exploration is worth it.

It is the additional science and technology that you get under that.