1、Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21866Updated June 22, 2004Space Exploration: Report of the AldridgeCommission on Implementation of PresidentBushs Exploration InitiativeMarcia S. SmithSpecialist in Aerospace and Tel
2、ecommunications PolicyResources, Science, and Industry DivisionSummaryWhen President George W. Bush announced new exploration goals for the NationalAeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on January 14, 2004, he also said hewould establish a commission to provide advice on how to implement the i
3、nitiative.Chaired by Edward C. “Pete” Aldridge, Jr., the commission submitted its report on June16, 2004. Four of its recommendations may frame congressional debate on the report:to convert NASAs field centers into Federally Funded Research and DevelopmentCenters (FFRDCs), to create a White House Sp
4、ace Exploration Steering Council, toincrease the role of the private sector in space activities, and to set certain conditions forinternational participation. This report will not be updated.Background and Commission MembersOn January 14, 2004, President Bush made a major space policy address in whi