6 April 2005 Letter From Sen. Barbara Boxer to Frederick Gregory regarding NASA Ames Research Center FY06 Funding Issues

April 6, 2005

Mr. Frederick Gregory, Acting Director

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

300 E Street SW

Washington DC 20024-3210

Dear Acting Director Gregory:

I am writing in regard to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) proposed FY06 budget. I understand that the proposed budget will cut nearly one third of NASA Ames’ budget. This could result in the loss of more than 300 jobs at NASA Ames.

As you know, NASA Ames, located at Moffet Field in my home state of California, does outstanding work. In addition, NASA Ames is an important part of the local and state community and economy.

In addition to facing budget cuts, I understand that NASA Headquarters is considering eliminating one of NASA Ames’ premier programs, the Space Station Biological Research Program (SSBRP). The elimination of this project alone would result in the loss of nearly 100 jobs.

America has invested billions of dollars to build and support the International Space Station (ISS) and the various research programs associated with it, such as the SSBRP. The SSBRP will be used to conduct important life science research on board the ISS. The results from life sciences research are expected to provide important medical and commercial advances. The SSBRP is also expected to provide the primary guidance and gateway o biotechnology research in space, a cutting edge program.

By maintaining programs like the SSBRP, America will continue to benefit from the great discoveries. I strongly urge NASA to provide full funding to NASA Ames, and to continue funding the SSBRP. Please keep me updated on any developments regarding NASA Ames and the SSBRP. If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Tang in my San Francisco office at (415) 403-0016. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely

[signed]

Barbara Boxer

United States Senator