NASA Response to Rep. Hall's Letter on Space Station Crew Support Capabilities

September 30, 2002

The Honorable Ralph M. Hall
Ranking Democrat
Committee on Science
House of Representatives
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Mr. Hall:

Thank you for your letter of June 13, 2002, forwarding a number of questions related to NASA's decision to implement an orderly shutdown of the X-38 project in favor of the pursuit of multipurpose vehicle concepts.

Over the past few months, NASA has conducted a number of reviews to assess the Integrated Space Transportation Plan (ISTP), which includes the Space Launch Initiative (SLI), the Space Shuttle hardware and infrastructure upgrades, and the longer-term 3^rd Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Program. The ISTP update has incorporated the ongoing reviews of the Space Shuttle Program, and has included an assessment of the timetable for a multipurpose vehicle to serve crew transfer and crew return functions.  I anticipate that the ISTP review will conclude shortly. The outcome of the I STP update will be a roadmap for future investment decisions, and it is likely to result in modifications to the current program.

Enclosed herewith are responses to your questions, which reflect a snapshot of NASA's current analysis.  Our assessments will mature as the ISTP update is completed, and as the FY 2004 budget formulation process continues....

Related Subcommittees

• Space and Aeronautics (107th Congress)

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