e condition of the atmosphere. This provides advance warnings of major, possibly catastrophic, weather phenomena. Along with data on current weather patterns, satellites can forecast problems with the atmosphere that may create problems in the future. Present day satellite-based navigation systems aboard planes and boats enable people to determine their exact location and heading accurately. This improves safety and makes travel more efficient. In more ways than one, the space program has an immediate effect on many aspects of our life. Research by the space program into the medical sciences affects all people. NASA is currently running experiments aimed at improving our quality of life and life expectancy. For instance, the Visual Sciences Department is working on a premise that the weightlessness of space would have a positive effect on the retinas of the human eye, causing less blindness and poor eyesight in humans by negating the pull of gravity. (Vision 1) The Department of Immunology has a theory that the human immune system is strongly influenced by environmental factors such as pollution, and space living would increase the strength and immunity of humans. (Immune 1) Perhaps the largest area of study at this time is from the bone and calcium studies, relating bone loss to gravity, and noting how bones respond to weightlessness. (Calcium 1) These projects, along with countless others currently being studied, will have a lasting effect on humankind. A different, yet valid argument was made by Ms. Sylvia Engdahl, Professor in Space Studies at Princeton. Her view on the importance of space flight centers around the need for "insurance" for mankind. There are still very real possibilities that the earth could be destroyed by nuclear war, terrorist attacks, or even an asteroid. "We all hope and believe that our homes won't burn down, and yet we buy fire insurance. Does not our species as a whole need an insurance policy?" ...
