Webb held the view that the space program was more than a race to the moon-it
could also be a catalyst for strengthening the nation's universities and
industry. As one example, he promoted a program to expand the supply of
scientists and engineers by assisting students in obtaining advanced degrees.
Through initiatives such as this Webb expected the space program to help
the country meet future challenges.
NASA, like the Department of Defense, accomplished most of its work through
contracts to industry and universities. NASA dollars flowed into communities
all across the nation, making many Americans direct participants in the
great venture. At the peak of Apollo, NASA had 35,000 employees and over
400,000 contractors in thousands of companies and universities. Project
Mercury, the first American human space exploration effort, and Project
Gemini were completed during Webb's tenure. Robotic spacecraft-Rangers,
Surveyors, and Lunar Orbiters-examined the Moon in preparation for exploration
by astronauts. And scientific probes were sent to Mars and Venus to extend
our understanding of the solar system. Webb saw his greatest contribution
in the "grand alliance" he forged among government, industry, and the academic
community. He expected this collaboration to provide a lasting resource
for improving local communities and for meeting the country's scientific
and technical needs.
  More
NASA Under Webb
|
|
