(Updated April 3, 2005)

H.Con.Res. 366
To Congratulate the National Aeronautics and Space Administration on the 25th Anniversary of the First Blight of the Space Transportation System, to Honor Commander John Young and the Pilot Robert Crippen, Who Flew Space Shuttle Columbia on April 12-14, 1981, on Its First Orbital Test Flight, and to Commend the Men and Women of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and All Those Supporting America's Space Program for Their Accomplishments and Their Role in Inspiring the American People   

Floor Situation

The House is scheduled to consider H.Con.Res. 366, under suspension of the rules, on Wednesday, April 5, 2006.  It is debatable for 40 minutes, may not be amended, and requires a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

Summary

H.Con.Res. 366 resolves that Congress congratulates the National Aeronautics and Space Administration on the 25th anniversary of the first flight of the Space Transportation System; honors Commander John Young and the Pilot Robert Crippen, who flew Space Shuttle Columbia on April 12-14, 1981, on its first orbital test flight; and commends the men and women of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and all those supporting America's space program for their accomplishments and their role in inspiring the American people.

Background

Space Shuttle Columbia was the first manned, reusable spacecraft that was flown into orbit without benefit of previous unmanned orbital test flights. The Space Shuttle Columbia was the first spacecraft to launch with wings, using solid rocket boosters. The Space Shuttle Columbia was the first reentry spacecraft to land on a conventional runway. The Space Shuttle program has allowed the United States to partner with other nations to build and to inhabit the International Space Station. The successful return to flight of the Space Shuttle represents the first leg of the Nation's Vision for Space Exploration.

The men and women of America's Space Shuttle program have been instrumental in ensuring the Nation's preeminence in space exploration for 25 years. The very specialized and highly valued workforce of the Space Shuttle program will contribute greatly to the Vision for Space Exploration as we return to the Moon, and go on to Mars and beyond. Like the explorers Lewis and Clark who explored our great Nation, John Young and Robert Crippen opened a new era of human exploration beyond our planet. Heroes such as John Young and Robert Crippen are a great inspiration to our next generation of Americans as they stimulate interest in the study of math and science.

Legislative History

H.Con.Res. 366 was introduced by Rep. Calvert (CA) on  March 29, 2006. The bill was referred to the Science Committee but was not considered.

For additional information or questions, please contact Rep. Calvert's at 5-1986.