From: utzoo!decvax!cca!REM@MIT-MC@sri-unix Newsgroups: net.space Title: DoD cargo Article-I.D.: sri-unix.1674 Posted: Tue Jun 8 00:44:08 1982 Received: Wed Jun 9 00:57:46 1982 From: Robert Elton MaasI think it's quite appropriate for Reagan to make a speech at tne completion of the four-flight test program. After all, we've known for 10 years that we were going to build the shuttle, but only next month will we know (at a confidence level of whatever four flights provides) that the contraption really is going to work like we all hoped. The first flight would have been a good time to speak, but the end of the fourth flight is an excellent time too. Speaking at the second or third flight would however have been non-canonical. I hope he announces a goal of permanent manned presence in space (i.e. a continuously-manned space station, like the USSR almost has already). I hope he also announces research to prove the availability of materials in space needed for largescale industry and habitat. ......... There, I've written a postcard to Reagan to that effect, and will go mail it right after sending this message. (Every little bit helps, one card equals 10k votes.)