Video and text of Sen. Nelson's remarks on the 40th anniversary of the moon landing

July 20, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Forty years ago today, the first humans to visit another sphere bounced around on the magnificent desolation of the moon.  On this 40th anniversary, we should not only remember this towering achievement, but also recall why we went there in the first place, says U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson.

The Florida Democrat heads a Senate panel that oversees the nations space agency.  And in 1986, he spent six days orbiting earth aboard the space shuttle Columbia.  To mark the anniversary of the first moon landing, Nelson released the following statement on why the U.S. needs a robust space program:

"Four decades ago, our nation landed men on the moon - fulfilling the human dream of boundless flight.

"Neil Armstrong promised us that it was - 'One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.'

"It was to be the first step on our way to Mars and beyond; toward new knowledge of our universe and, perhaps, the discovery of other life.

"Yet today we are mired in debate about the direction of our space program.

"The answer is obvious: Our thirst for knowledge requires that we explore the universe.

"Space flight grows science and technology.  It grows education.  And it grows the economy. 

"It improves and enriches life here on Earth.

"President Kennedy said opening the vistas of space would bring high cost and grave dangers.  But, he said, 'This country was not built by those who rested.'

"So today – on this historic anniversary – let’s not rest. 

"The president needs to make space exploration a national priority. 

"And our nation needs a clear goal: a lunar base, humans on Mars - and then beyond.

"It's up to us to continue the greatest adventure.  It’s up to us to reach for the stars."

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