The U.S. House passed a resolution Thursday recognizing the upcoming 50-year anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Tuesday, July 29. Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), whose district includes Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, released the following statement:

“When NASA was created 50 years ago, space was still a new frontier, and the wonders of the universe were waiting to be explored.  Half a century later, the vision behind NASA’s creation has been realized beyond our wildest imagination, launching an American-led era of human space flight, science and exploration that has led to unprecedented new discoveries of our planet, our solar system and indeed, the universe.  

“Today, the Congress recognizes the unqualified success of NASA and congratulates all the scientists, astronauts, engineers and technicians, whose ingenuity and innovation have put a man on the moon, expanded the breadth of human knowledge and inspired generations of Americans.

“I am proud to represent and to recognize today one of NASA’s premier research and development facilities, Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Named after Robert Goddard, the physicist credited as the father of modern rocket propulsion, Goddard Space Flight Center was established in 1959 as NASA’s first space flight facility.  Goddard has played a critical role in NASA’s success, including one of NASA’s most popular missions, the Hubble Space Telescope.  

“Today, as the world struggles to confront the challenges of global climate change, Goddard’s work has never been more essential. Goddard boasts the nation’s largest collection of earth scientists, and its satellites provide us with critical data about our dynamic world.” 

“I am grateful to all the talented professionals, at Goddard and throughout NASA, who have committed themselves to improving our understanding of the earth and the entire universe.  Congratulations to NASA on an incredible first 50 years. I am excited to see the exciting discoveries that lie ahead.” 

 

House Resolution is below.
 

H. RES. 1315

COMMEMORATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION

June 26, 2008

Whereas the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was established on July 29, 1958;

Whereas on May 5, 1961, NASA succ