Reps. Chu and Bacon Spearhead Bipartisan Effort with Planetary Science Caucus Re-Launch

Reps. Chu and Bacon Spearhead Bipartisan Effort with Planetary Science Caucus Re-Launch
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 12, 2024

In a significant stride towards bolstering space science and exploration, Representatives Judy Chu (CA-28) and Don Bacon (NE-02) have unveiled the re-establishment of the Planetary Science Caucus within the U.S. Congress.

This bipartisan initiative underscores the pivotal role of planetary science in fueling economic growth, enhancing national security, and cementing America's stature as a global leader in scientific and technological innovation. The space industry, contributing approximately 0.6% to the U.S. GDP, currently employs over 360,000 Americans in the private sector, showcasing the substantial economic impact of federal investments in space science.

The Caucus's mission is multi-faceted, aiming to promote awareness and support for space exploration's scientific, educational, and economic merits. Key objectives include backing research and exploration endeavors by government entities, commercial firms, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations; amplifying efforts to identify and mitigate threats from near-Earth objects; propelling the quest for extraterrestrial life; and highlighting the economic dividends of space science investments.

Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Judy Chu expressed enthusiasm for perpetuating humanity's storied engagement with the cosmos through this congressional initiative, citing California's rich heritage in space exploration as a source of inspiration. She emphasized the Caucus's role in facilitating interactions among congressional members, staff, and influential figures from NASA, the aerospace sector, and the scientific and academic communities, fostering a deeper understanding of space exploration's historical significance and future prospects.

Echoing this sentiment, Co-Chair Rep. Don Bacon reflected on humanity's enduring fascination with the cosmos and the imperative to prioritize exploration to fuel future innovations. He highlighted the transformative power of space exploration in advancing human knowledge and technology.

Bill Nye, CEO of The Planetary Society, lauded the collaborative spirit of Reps. Chu and Bacon in leading the Planetary Science Caucus. He noted the bipartisan and public enthusiasm for space exploration, emphasizing the importance of the Caucus in advancing our cosmic understanding and humanity's aspirations among the stars.