Governor Fletcher Commits to Developing New Technologies as Part of an Emerging Initiative

             Frankfort, KY:  Governor Ernie Fletcher joined with representatives from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) today to announce a partnership on behalf of the emerging Moon/Mars initiative.

             The partnership will be between the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation (KSTC) and NASA.

             The nation has embarked on an ambitious effort to return to the Moon for more extended exploration and then on to Mars.  Kentucky's colleges and universities and innovation-driven companies are in a position to contribute and participate in this exciting effort.

             "This new partnership will create new opportunities for Kentucky's scientists, faculty, entrepreneurs, teachers, and students," stated Governor Ernie Fletcher.  "I have a vision for Kentucky to have a more competitive position in the New Economy, and this initiative will help us in this endeavor."

             To facilitate their work, the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation will open and manage an office at the NASA Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California. 

             Kentucky native and director of the NASA Ames Research Center, Scott Hubbard, is thrilled about the new partnership.  "We are very excited to more broadly involve the intellectual and technological resources of Kentucky as we embark on our ambitious space exploration agenda," said Hubbard.

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