    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [May 19, 1999]
    [Pages 813-814]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Memorandum on Assessment of Space Launch Vehicles
    May 19, 1999

    Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense

    Subject: Assessment of Space Launch Vehicles

        Our national space transportation capabilities are critical to the
    overall strength and stability of our commercial, civil, and national
    security space sectors.
        As we enter the 21st century, reliable access to space will be more
    important than ever in accomplishing our national goals. It is vitally
    important that we fully understand the root causes behind the recent
    launch vehicle failures and take corrective action. Therefore, I request
    that you, in coordination with the Director of Central Intelligence and
    the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    (NASA), provide me with an interim report in 90 days and a final report
    in 180 days on the

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    causes of these failures and actions required to ensure our future
    access to space.
        I have asked Dr. Neal Lane, my Assistant
    for Science and Technology, to work closely with you, the Director of
    Central Intelligence, and the Administrator of NASA on this important
    issue.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    cc: The Director of Central Intelligence, The Administrator of the
    National Aeronautics and Space Administration, The Assistant to the
    President for Science and Technology

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this memorandum.