Issue Position: Space Exploration
Issue Position
Space exploration is not just far-off science fiction for my constituents and I. It is home-grown science right here in the San Gabriel Valley, thanks to the work of Caltech's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). JPL is one of the bedrocks of our community and a global leader in space exploration. JPL's 5,000 employees help propel our national economy through scientific, technological and engineering inventions. That is why I am committed to supporting the vital, cutting-edge work that JPL conducts for NASA, like its missions to Mars.
Here's how I'm fighting for a strong space program:
Protecting Funding for JPL's Mission to Mars
Supporting NASA Space Technology
Protecting Funding for JPL's Missions to Mars
The cutting-edge work provided by the NASA Mars program means investment in the economy and thousands of jobs -- not only at JPL, but in spin-off industries and businesses, and throughout the community. However, the initial draft of the Fiscal Year 2013 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill disproportionately cut funding for the Mars program and threatened to derail the future of the mission. That is why I sent a letter to the House Appropriations Committee to urge them to preserve this critical funding and testified before the Committee to urge them to protect the Mars program from cuts.
Thanks to these efforts, an additional $88 million for the Mars program was included in the final appropriations bill that passed the House in May, 2012. The Senate provided an additional $12 million over the House bill. I am committed to fighting for highest level of funding possible as these bills keep moving through the legislative process so the Mars Program can continue its mission in FY2013, and better plan for its long-term future.
You can learn more by reading my Op-Ed, featured in the Pasadena Sun Times, about the future of the Mars program, here: http://articles.pasadenasun.com/2012-06-22/opinion/32372416_1_jpl-s-mars-space-exploration-bringing-mars
Supporting NASA Space Technology
In addition to backing the Mars mission, I also support scientific research and investment in other areas critical to Space Exploration. I believe we must fully fund NASA Space Technology, which is crucial for developing the next generation of advanced technologies in propulsion, robotics, satellite servicing, deep-space communications, power systems, entry, descent, and landing to enable us to reach further into deep space.
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