SCIENCE IN SPACE

THE National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 declared that activities in space should be devoted to peaceful purposes for the benefit of all mankind. In support of this intent, the Act called for a vigorous effort of science in aeronautics and space exploration with objectives as follows: expansion of knowledge of atmospheric and space science; improvement of aeronautical and space vehicles; development and operation of space vehicles; study of potential benefits to be gained for mankind through space activities; maintenance of United States leadership in aeronautical and space-science technology and in the application thereof to peaceful activities; interchange of information between civilian and national defense agencies; cooperation with other nations in aeronautical and space activities and in the peaceful application of the results; and effective utilization of the scientific and engineering resources of the United States in achieving these goals.