“While far away, Mars is a goal within our reach. We are closer to sending humans to Mars than at any point in NASA’s history.”
— NASA, “Journey to Mars: Pioneering Next Steps in Space Exploration”
NASA’s new report outlines its plan to reach Mars in phases, starting by testing technologies and conducting research aboard the International Space Station; developing the necessary hardware and procedures in the proving ground around the moon; and finally sending astronauts to Mars itself.
Both NASA and private companies are putting in place many of the capabilities needed to send humans to Mars. As the Center for American Progress noted last June at an event to honor astronaut Ed White’s historic spacewalk, the United States is building consensus on the future of its human spaceflight program—where we will go, how we will get there, and who will come with us. Slowly but surely, that consensus is emerging—with a focus on Mars as America’s horizon goal.
Please join CAP for a keynote address by NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, as well as a discussion regarding America’s next steps on its journey to Mars and beyond.
Welcoming remarks:
Rudy deLeon, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress
Keynote:
Honorable Charles Bolden, Administrator, National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Moderators:
Peter Juul, Policy Analyst, Center for American Progress
Rudy deLeon, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress