When you hear "flexibility" what comes to mind? A rubber band? A gymnast? How about NASA? Typically, we think of NASA as a quite rigid organization with specific procedures and protocols in place, directed by HQ in Washington D.C. In reality, a certain flexibility has always existed, from the design of new and novel space and aircraft, to Neil Armstrong taking control of the LM with moments to spare to avoid landing in a field of boulders, to granting waivers for safety restrictions when it is prudent. In the Live Chat last evening, 63 members of the OLC heard exploration manager Mike Weiss from Goddard talk about the new 'flexible plan' for exploration.
I received this email from Patrick N., a junior in the OLC:
Thank you very much! I would also like to add that this chat was very enlightening and really cleared up a lot of questions and frustration I had with NASA and the administration. The whole structure of NASAThanks, Patrick! If you missed the Live Chat, check it out in the Live Chat Archive. Then leave a comment or question on the Discussion Board. And don't forget to go to Quizzes on the Discover page to take the quiz for 50 points!
makes a lot more sense now and it is reasuring to see that NASA does intend to continue with human spaceflight. I really like the "flexible" approach NASA has decided to take because in this day and age, it is very hard for them to foresee any political changes.
Next week, engineer Jose Flores will present on what is going on at the Johnson Space Center, home of Mission Control. Sign up starts Monday on the Discussion Board!
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