[Satellite News 08-20-08] The platforms of both Democratic presidential candidate Barrack Obama and Republican candidate John McCain use the same language to discuss the future of the U.S. space program.
    The details of Obama’s program, released Aug. 19, mirror McCain’s, focusing on closing the gap between the retirement of the space shuttle and the beginning of NASA’s Constellation program, maintaining space infrastructure, reviving the manned space flight program and securing funds for advancing space and aeronautic technology.
    “I believe NASA needs an inspirational vision for the 21st century,” Obama said in a statement. “My vision will build on the great goals set forth in recent years, to maintain a robust program of human space exploration and ensure the fulfillment of NASA’s mission.”
    McCain sponsored legislation in June 2004 (S. 2541, which later became the NASA Authorization Act of 2005, a version McCain did not support) authorizing funding consistent with President Bush’s agenda for the space program, which includes a return of astronauts to the Moon in preparation for a manned mission to Mars.
    According to McCain’s campaign Web site, the Republican candidate wants to ensure the national space workforce is maintained and fully utilized by completing the construction of the International Space Station National Laboratory.
    Obama’s plan calls for a bigger role for robotics in space missions and more cooperation and collaboration with international allies in strengthening the U.S. space program as well as boosting and promoting aerospace education in the United States
    Despite the fact that both platforms have now been made public, “the space program is definitely low on the list of priorities for both candidates,” said Robert Bell, executive director of the Society of Satellite Professionals International. “It is all about the economy and Iraq at this point.”