Jim Matheson: “Saturday's tragedy was both unexpected and shocking. It evoked memories of an earlier American tragedy, the 1986 Space…”

“Saturday's tragedy was both unexpected and shocking. It evoked memories of an earlier American tragedy, the 1986 Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. But we must remember that this terrible loss shows the continued bravery of the American space program. We forget so easily the immense risks associated with space exploration, and I commend those individuals who continue to put themselves at great risk in order for all of us to live in a more enlightened and advanced society. In the wake of this tragedy, NASA and the Congress must work together to initiate the most complete and thorough investigation possible in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The work of exploration is ongoing and we must be vigilant in maintaining standards of safety. Larger questions about the future of our journey into space must also be addressed by Congress. It is important that we also remember the three crewmembers still on board the International Space Station who lost valued friends and peers. I am hopeful that they will safely return to Earth as soon as possible. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the heroic crew of Space Shuttle Columbia. I am certain that the men and women at NASA are struggling with their grief, as well, and my thoughts are with them also. Let us all remember the remarkable individuals who reached the stars and lived lives of great American accomplishment.”