[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 22 (Monday, February 8, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E155]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         ROCSAT-1 LAUNCH FROM SPACEPORT FLORIDA A GREAT SUCCESS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DAVE WELDON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 8, 1999

  Mr. WELDON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I have the distinct privilege of 
bringing to the Members' attention the fact that Spaceport Florida has 
successfully launched its second satellite. On Tuesday, January 26, 
1999, I was pleased to personally observe as an Athena rocket left 
Florida's Spaceport to deploy the ROCSAT-1, the first satellite 
launched by the Republic of China, Taiwan. I am proud of the success of 
the government of Taiwan, Spaceport Florida, and involved commercial 
companies in this endeavor.
  The launch of ROCSAT-1 was accomplished with the cooperation of 
Taiwan's National Space Program Office, Lockheed Martin and the 
Spaceport Florida Authority. This is only the latest example of the 
Spaceport Authority's ability to successfully launch payloads into 
space and at a competitive price. I am hopeful that this successful 
endeavor between the Republic of China and Florida will lead to more 
exciting and profitable ventures that will benefit both parties. This 
is a proud moment for Taiwan and Florida.
  After personally viewing the historic launch, I can also say that I 
firmly believe that Florida's first rate launching capabilities are 
advancing and will strengthen our competitiveness. I am also pleased 
that Taiwan chose Florida as the place for launching their satellite. 
Florida has a proven track record of dependable launches and we added 
to that number on January 26. I hope this will be the first launch of 
many.

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