National Aeronautics and Space Administration: Overview, FY2008 Budget in Brief, and Key Issues for Congress

Abstract:

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducts U.S. civilian space and aeronautics activities. For FY2008, the Administration has requested $17.309 billion for NASA, an increase of 6.5% from the FY2007 appropriation of $16.247 billion. The NASA Authorization Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-155) authorizes FY2008 funding of $18.686 billion. The key issue for Congress is implementation of the Vision for Space Exploration, including development of new vehicles for human spaceflight, plans for the transition to these vehicles after the space shuttle is retired in 2010, and the balance in NASA's priorities between human exploration and its other activities in science and aeronautics.