    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [October 29, 1997]
    [Pages 1455-1456]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message to the Congress Transmitting a Report on Aeronautics and Space
    Activities
    October 29, 1997

    To the Congress of the United States:
        I am pleased to transmit this report on the Nation's achievements in
    aeronautics and space during fiscal year (FY) 1996, as required under
    section 206 of the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958, as
    amended (42 U.S.C. 2476). Aeronautics and space activities in FY 1996
    involved 14 contributing departments and agencies of the Federal
    Government.
        A wide variety of aeronautics and space developments took place
    during FY 1996. The Administration issued an integrated National Space
    Policy, consolidating a number of previous policy directives into a
    singular, coherent vision of the future for the civil, commercial, and
    national security space sectors. The Administration also issued a formal
    policy on the future management and use of the U.S. Global Positioning
    System.
        During FY 1996, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    (NASA) successfully completed eight Space Shuttle flights. NASA also
    launched 7 expendable launch vehicles, while the Department of Defense
    launched 9 and the commercial sector launched 13. In the reusable launch
    vehicle program, Vice President Gore announced NASA's selection of a
    private sector partner to design, fabricate, and flight test the X-33
    vehicle.
        Scientists made some dramatic new discoveries in various space-
    related fields such as space science, Earth science and remote sensing,
    and life and microgravity science. Most notably, NASA researchers
    cooperating with the National Science Foundation found possible evidence
    of ancient microbial life in a meteorite believed to be from Mars.
        In aeronautics, activities included the development of technologies
    to improve performance, increase safety, reduce engine noise, and assist
    U.S. industry to be more competitive in the world market. Air traffic
    control activities focused on various automation systems to increase
    flight safety and enhance the efficient use of air space.

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        Close international cooperation with Russia occurred in the Shuttle-
    Mir docking missions and with Canada, Europe, Japan, and Russia in the
    International Space Station program. The United States also entered into
    new cooperative agreements with Japan and new partners in South America
    and Asia.
        In conclusion, FY 1996 was a very active and successful year for
    U.S. aeronautics and space programs. Efforts in these areas have
    contributed significantly to the Nation's scientific and technical
    knowledge, international cooperation, environmental health, and economic
    competitiveness.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    The White House,

    October 29, 1997.