July 26, 2005

            “We celebrate today the successful launch of Discovery, and we need to continue to pray for the safe return of the crew upon completion of their mission,” Hall said.

 “During the past two and a half years since the tragic loss of Columbia, NASA and Congress have focused on safety issues and worked to reduce as much as possible the risks for our astronauts.  The postponement of the launch until today is part of that effort.”

            “Today’s launch is important for the space program and particularly for human spaceflight,” Hall noted.  “This marks the return to spaceflight and the first step in the President’s vision for space exploration that includes a return to the Moon by 2020 and a possible venture to Mars.  Safety must continue to be our primary concern as we develop a new Crew Exploration Vehicle to achieve these initiatives.”

            “It is always thrilling to watch a Shuttle launch, and today’s launch was even more uplifting in that it represents the ability of our Nation and our space program to overcome tragedy and continue to keep the dream of human spaceflight alive,” Hall added.  “The American spirit has proven time and again to be undaunted, and the shuttle launch personifies that spirit.”

            “As a senior member of the Science Committee, I have had the privilege of knowing numerous astronauts.  They are not only supremely qualified for their missions – they are also completely committed to keeping America at the forefront of space exploration.  They accept the risks that go with the job – and they deserve the support, respect and admiration of all Americans.  We wish them a safe journey and God speed.”