NASA And Space Hero Are Not "Partners" – At Least Not Yet
Good one @colbertlateshow we just signed an agreement with Nasa to not be left out in the space craft alone, ISS, here we come!! https://t.co/Snz7tixpVF
— Space Hero – Coming Soon (@SpaceHeroMedia) April 8, 2021
Keith’s note: You may have seen some stories, tweets, and LinkedIn comments about Space Hero and their TV program that will send someone to the ISS. Stephen Colbert mentioned it on TV. They openly claim that NASA is a “partner” on their website. Well, I specifically asked NASA HQ Public Affairs about the overt statement at https://www.spacehero.org that NASA is a “partner” with Space Hero. NASA replied and declined to confirm that an agreement is in place between NASA and Space Hero – or that they are a “partner” – saying instead:
“You asked about Stephen Colbert’s comments on the Space Hero release. For us, we’re still working out the final details and agreements on the Private Astronaut Missions. We believe it opens the door to interesting opportunities for private industry and we look forward to seeing the final proposals that could lead to programs like a Space Hero. We know companies will be out there talking about their shows and once we have final agreements in place we will be able to talk more about NASA’s participation.”
Keith’s update: But wait: there’s more – and “its complicated”.
My response to NASA PAO’s original comment: “So the answer is that there is no agreement in place between NASA and Space Hero at the present time and that NASA is not officially a partner with Space Hero as is overtly stated on the Space Hero website – Yes?”
Answer: “It’s not that simple. The agreement is in phases. There is an initial agreement in place, but there are other steps that need to be completed. We working toward a final agreement that makes it possible.”
I am still waiting to find out if NASA is actually “partner” as is stated on the Space Hero website. NASA’s lawyers get very finicky about people claiming that NASA is a “partner” and the use of the agency’s logo to imply a formal relationship. Stay tuned.
