Bill Clinton

“ Propelled by the fire that President Kennedy sparked in our imaginations, the pioneering scientists of our country's emerging space program sent the Apollo 11 astronauts on the greatest adventure humankind has ever known. As the first extraordinary images of the moon's surface were transmitted to Earth for all to see, we began to recognize, as never before, how far the human race had traveled-and how far we have yet to go. ”

“ We must empower our young people to venture farther into the limitless frontier of space. We must encourage them to recognize the vast possibilities of science and mathematics, instilling in their generation the same faith in self that enabled explorers of our generation to stand on the soil of another world. ”

“ By investing in space transportation, we will ensure affordable access to space for our posterity. By supporting the communications and navigational systems that have maintained our Nation's security, we help to promote stability around the globe. By completing our "Mission to Planet Earth," we will gain unique insight into our planet's dynamic environment. We have one chance to keep our covenant with the generations to come-safeguarding the thin blue shield that sustains all of Earth's inhabitants. ”