Hearing of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee - Spurring Economic Growth and Competitiveness Through NASA Derived Technologies

Hearing

Good morning and thank you Mr. Chairman, for calling this important hearing on NASA spinoffs.

NASA technologies produce direct economic and societal benefits for all Americans. Since the agency was established in 1958, technical challenges of NASA's space exploration, space science, and aeronautics missions have led to technological advances, unique skills, and scientific knowledge that have contributed to America's capacity for innovation and global competitiveness.

Mr. Chairman, this hearing serves as an opportunity to educate the public on the connection between the federal government's investments in space and the benefits to society. These contributions developed important products, such as satellite radio, medical diagnostics and aeronautical advances that have improved the safety, and fuel-efficiency performance of both commercial and military aircraft.

In carrying out its missions and developing these technologies, NASA also has inspired young people to enter educational and career paths in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

I look forward to hearing from the witnesses on what steps can be taken to enhance NASA's technology transfer and commercialization processes, how to increase the impacts of NASA-applied technologies to the economy and society at large, and ways to improve NASA's communication to the public to ensure the societal benefits of its technology and R&D are better understood and appreciated.

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