NASA Plans Cash Prizes in Wake of SpaceShipOne Success

NASA Plans Cash Prizes in Wake of SpaceShipOne Success

Because of the success of SpaceShipOne's historic launch, coupled with the excitement created by the mission, NASA has announced plans to offer Cash-Prize Contests for othter privately-based space projects.

With the X-Prize yet unclaimed, the buzz at Monday's flight is certain to increase as the X-Prize requirements are challenged. Hopefully, this will continue to inspire new entrepreneurs and refocus America's mission into space. While NASA has accomplished a considerable amount, their assistance to the private space community is definitely an excellent next step for both NASA and the sprouting private space industry.

While private space companies might not "challenge" NASA, many niches are available that are not of interest to NASA, but have economic impact. NASA's assistance in achieving such missions can inspire the Nation, revolutionize the American and World economies, ultimately, making NASA even more relevant, efficient, and successful.