Sen. Shelby's Crusade Against Commercial Space

A Brief History Review for Sen. Richard Shelby, Commercial Space Gateway
“Sen. Richard Shelby (R. – Ala.) is unhappy because NASA Administrator Christopher Scolese intends to use $150 million of the $400 million NASA received as part of the stimulus package to support the development of commercial space transportation for delivering cargo and personnel to the space station. His rationale reveals an astounding lack of historical perspective. During a May 21st hearing of the Senate Appropriations Commerce, Justice, and Science Subcommittee hearing, the Senator stated, “I believe that manned spaceflight is something that is still in the realm of government, because despite their best efforts, some truly private enterprises have not been able to deliver on plans of launching vehicles.” I guess he missed the successful launch of Space Exploration Technologies’ (SpaceX) Falcon 1 rocket on Sept. 28, 2008.”
Keith’s note: It is quite obvious by now that Sen. Shelby is doing his level best to protect MSFC (and jobs in Alabama) from any possible commercial competition for the role of the seemingly doomed Ares 1 rocket and its phantom (and unfunded) sibling the Ares 5. He will clearly stoop to whatever level is required. Stay tuned – he is not done yet.