Michael Griffin envision private role in Space Exploration

Michael Griffin envision private role in Space Exploration

NASA is realizing the role of private players in the space exploration missions. NASA administrator Michael Griffin has expressed his desire that private players could play a big role in helping them explore the possibilities in space. He also said that the international space station could provide incentive for businesses to get involved.

Griffin told the American Astronautical Society’s annual conference: “The exploration of the solar system cannot be what we want it to be.” He also said that the cost could not be totally borne by the American taxpayer. NASA believes that the International Space Station gives them an opportunity to promote commercial space ventures enabling them to create new jobs and new industry.

He also said that after the current Space Shuttle fleet retires in the next couple of years, he would like to see commercial industry take over crew rotations and supply missions. Griffin added: “We want to be able to buy these services from American industry. We believe that when we engage the engine of competition, these services will be provided in a more-cost effective fashion than when the government has to do it.”

Mike also said that the private sector could develop habitats in which astronauts would live on the moon, and develop communications and navigation systems as well as orbiting fueling depots where crews headed beyond low Earth orbit could refuel on return trips to the moon or farther.