[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 20 (Monday, May 24, 1999)]
[Page 945]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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 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.