M.D. Lias: It's not like this was a long time coming. But all the same, it has come as a surprise to many NASA and space enthusiasts.Some of these folk are very upset that Atlantis "will be cannibalized for spare parts for [the two other remaining shuttles] Discovery and Endeavour," as one put it, also labeling this event a "NASA blunder."But others are more open and understanding of the agency's decision, calling NASA's decision "financially more sensible."The NASA officials, said an SEDS member, "have the right to do what they need to do to be successful."The upset folk, in turn, have wondered why Atlantis, if it is to be removed from the launch pad in two years, cannot be displayed at the Smithsonian.Well for one, the Air and Space building is running out of room, what with all the other craft in there. For another, the mock-up shuttle Enterprise is already on display.In addition, if the STS program will be retired in four years, why would two out of three shuttles available for the final two years make a difference? Complaining about scrapping Atlantis in two years, said the SEDS member, "just adds stress."But why not use money or capital to fix up Discovery and Endeavour rather than spare parts from Atlantis? Well, NASA is a "large organization that has grown up in a government that has a history of constantly changing its mind and sending mixed signals to the agency"; it lacks the financial opportunity envisioned by many of its enthusiasts.This decision would not have been seriously criticized nor highly contested if made by a company in a competitive market. But this is no private company; this is NASA. And personally, I have no problem with NASA's decision; if it can eliminate its STS program without consuming an overdose of short-run supply, then I'm all for the sinking of Atlantis.
