WASHINGTON – Marking a milestone in Congressional history, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Astronaut John Phillips today testified live from space at a Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee hearing examining the International Space Station (ISS).
Dr. Phillips, who is currently serving aboard the ISS as the Science Officer and Flight Engineer of the current mission, Expedition 11, testified live via video connection with the ISS. He is the first person in history to deliver Congressional testimony from space. Also testifying were two astronauts who served on previous ISS missions: Dr. Peggy Whitson, a member of the ISS crew during Expedition 5 (June-Dec. 2002); and Lt. Col. Michael Fincke (U.S. Air Force), a member of the ISS crew during Expedition 9 (April-Oct. 2004). They testified in the Committee hearing room.
“It is vital to understand the impacts of space travel on humans and to consider the potential promises and challenges human space flight may hold,” said Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert (R-CA). “The testimony from Dr. Phillips was very instructive because it gave us a feel for the daily challenges that astronauts face. I believe strongly that humans – not just robots – must continue to explore space. Today’s hearing gave me and my colleagues an opportunity to understand the ways we can improve the lives and mission of our astronauts.”
The Subcommittee hearing covered a variety of topics ranging from NASA’s mission and objectives, to the importance of allowing astronauts to talk to their families while in space.
Later this month, the Science Committee plans to hold a hearing with NASA Administrator Michael Griffin. The Committee is also drafting an authorization bill for NASA and plans to mark up the legislation at the Subcommittee level at the end of the month.
