Space cadets desperately need a relaunch This nation’s space program is in serious need of an image overhaul. First, we had astronaut Lisa Nowak running around in a diaper (go ahead, Google it) as she attempted to kidnap a romantic rival. Now, a report commissioned by NASA has determined that some space-shuttle crew members have flown while drunk. What’s next, Jell-O shots and nude Twister on the International Space Station? Actually, that would make me want to sign up, but it probably wouldn’t enhance the brand for most of the general public. Space exploration used to be a noble pursuit, punctuated by patriotic sips of Tang and weightless rounds of lunar golf. Maybe John Glenn is available for some PSAs. He nearly flamed out on re-entry back in ’62, so at least he’s no stranger to sly non sequiturs. NASA better get its act together soon. If the press keeps poking around, they’re liable to unearth the top-secret soundstage where the moon landings were faked. (You can Google that one, too.) —Posted by David Gianatasio

July 27, 2007 | Permalink

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Wired's June issue of this features a full overview of what's wrong with NASA. Check it out.

Seth Godin has also written about on his blog about NASA's broken system, and how they should scrap the whole process and start over. (I couldn't find the post. It's a day worth of work digging through his archives. It might actually be one of the blurbs in Small is the New Big.)

We would make up a lot of ground by doing that instead of trying to fix an old and outdated system.

Posted by: Chris Wilson | Jul 27, 2007 5:01:01 PM

The image problem is a much bigger deal than the behavior. See our remarks at the link.

Posted by: Rechercher | Jul 29, 2007 1:04:20 PM

I feel awful having a hangover on a plane. Imagine while upside over the earth. But as long as there's a designated driver, what's the problem?

If I knew there was a 1-100 chance of blowing up as I strap[ed myself on a rocket and travel into outerspace, where I may also end up off course and traveling towards the sun for the next few years...yeah, I'd have a few a drinks before going up.

Posted by: Jay | Jul 30, 2007 2:54:47 PM

People need to be reminded of the amazing technology that has come from space exploration industry. Although the ad industry has also spurred some interesting tech as well.

Posted by: adbrat | Jul 31, 2007 1:04:34 AM

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