Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) attended the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Endeavour lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida en route to the International Space Station (ISS).  A bipartisan delegation of Members of Congress attended the launch, including House Science & Technology Committee Chairman Bart Gordon (D-TN) and Energy and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Nick Lampson (D-TX).

 

“Space exploration and research continue to provide valuable discoveries, enhance our knowledge of the universe, and enable us to test and advance cutting-edge technologies for our nation’s future,” said Reichert.

 

“America is and must remain a leader in global innovation and competitiveness. Missions like Endeavour’s keep our nation on a path of discovery and exploration for many years to come.

 

“It was thrilling to witness ‘history in the making’ as the shuttle safely launched for the International Space Station.  I particularly enjoyed sharing this opportunity with the many schoolteachers who gathered for the launch and who will bring the excitement of it back to their classrooms to encourage the next generation of astronauts, researchers and even teachers to engage in science education.”

 

“Unfortunately our country is falling behind in math and science education. One of the many benefits of our space program is helping build a sense of wonder and excitement in math and science so important in encouraging children to become interested in those subjects.”

 

According to NASA, the shuttle crew will deliver the first section of the Japanese-built Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system called Dextre.

 

Ten schoolteachers were selected to attend a NASA workshop as well as the shuttle launch.  NASA officials developed an itinerary the teachers can take back to their classrooms to build enthusiasm about math and science among their students. 

 

The Committee maintains jurisdiction over U.S. civil space and aeronautics activity.  For more information about the STS-123 crew and mission to the space station, visit NASA’s website.

 

As a member of the House Science and Technology Committee, Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) serves on the Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, and the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight. Reichert is also a member of the House Congressional Internet Caucus and the House Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Caucus.

 

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