NASA Video

I heard them talk about the “Barriers to Innovation” video on NPR Monday morning on my way to work.  I was so happy I started singing Blue Skies. This is the type of publicity we need to get things turned around.  

The history that I know of NASA has been a culture where statements are sanitized and problems ignored.  It is no surprise that if those in upper management sanitize and ignore problems, that those that follow will also sanitize and ignore.  The signal that upper-management is willing to spotlight the problem, instead of sanitize and ignore it shows that change is really desired.  It is an act of integrity that I believe the public is acclimated to appreciate.  

Now is the time to spotlight the real state of NASA.  With the economy in its current state, a sense of urgency must surround the NASA community.  We must be willing to open our minds to new and innovative ways of doing things.  The solution to the problem is deep and complex.  The solution will require open cooperation from the whole community, which will require training in a different way of thinking that the community is not used to doing.  Given the state of the current economy care must be taken that those who dedicate themselves to the mission success of NASA don’t feel that their livelyhoods are at risk.  Cooperation will not occur if fear covers the NASA community.

The video should be shown to all in the NASA community.  Care must be taken that these problems do not go under the radar in a time where great problems plague America.  

It must be realized and understood that if institutions like NASA don’t execute America is in deep trouble.  NASA can play a big role in the vitality of Americas economic future, but we have to want it.  NASA is more than an R&D institution, it is a symbol of hope and a source of inspiration.  All these things together gives us the potential to have a huge impact for America and the world.  History shows that NASA has done it before and we can do it again.