Chairman Gordon Notes 50th Anniversary of the Space Age
(Washington, DC) The Chairman of the House Committee on Science and Technology Bart Gordon (D-TN) today issued the following statement in anticipation of the 50th anniversary of the dawn of the Space Age that occurred on October 4, 1957.
That event in 1957 had a major societal impact, sparking a reexamination of the nation’s educational system, especially in the areas of math and science. It also led Congress to focus increased intention on science and space, one outcome of which was the establishment of this Committee.
Chairman Gordon commented:
“In 1957, space was seen as one more arena for Cold War competition between nations. However, over the last five decades, the exploration of space has evolved into an international endeavor marked by significant accomplishments that have benefited all of humanity.”
“We have received an impressive return on our past investments in America’s space program, and I think we need to continue to pursue a bold and productive future in space. In addition, we need to take heed of one of the legacies of the ‘wake-up call’ delivered by Sputnik and reaffirm America’s commitment to making the investments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education that are needed to ensure that our children will be able to compete in the new global economic marketplace. Enactment of the America COMPETES Act was an important first step, but more needs to be done.”
For more information on the America COMPETES Act, click here.
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