In particular our cooperation with developing countries reflects the importance that each of them has placed on the relationship between economic growth and scientific and technological capability.  It also reflects their view that the great strength of the U.S. in science and technology makes close relations with the U.S. technical community an especially productive means of enhancing this capability.  Scientific and technological assistance is a key linkage between the U.S. and the developing world, a linkage that has been under-utilized in the past and one which we must continue to work to strengthen.

—­Space Policy.  The Administration has established a framework for a strong and evolving space program for the 1980’s.

The Administration’s space policy reaffirmed the separation of military space systems and the open civil space program, and at the same time, provided new guidance on technology transfer between the civil and military programs.  The civil space program centers on three basic tenets:  First, our space policy will reflect a balanced strategy of applications, science, and technology development.  Second, activities will be pursued when they can be uniquely or more efficiently accomplished in space.  Third, a premature commitment to a high challenge, space-engineering initiative of the complexity of Apollo is inappropriate.  As the Shuttle development phases down, however, there will be added flexibility to consider new space applications, space science and new space exploration activities.

—­Technology Development.  The Shuttle dominates our technology development effort and correctly so.  It represents one of the most sophisticated technological challenges ever undertaken, and as a result, has encountered technical problems.  Nonetheless, the first manned orbital flight is now scheduled for March, 1981.  I have been pleased to support strongly the necessary funds for the Shuttle throughout my Administration.

—­Space Applications.  Since 1972, the U.S. has conducted experimental civil remote sensing through Landsat satellites, thereby realizing many successful applications.  Recognizing this fact, I directed the implementation of an operational civil land satellite remote sensing system, with the operational management responsibility in Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  In addition, because ocean observations from space can meet common civil and military data requirements, a National Oceanic Satellite System has been proposed as a major FY 1981 new start.

—­Space Science Exploration.  The goals of this Administration’s policy in space science have been to:  (1) continue a vigorous program of planetary exploration to understand the origin and evolution of the solar system; (2) utilize the space telescope and free-flying satellites to usher in a new era of astronomy; (3) develop a better understanding of the sun and its interaction with the terrestrial environment; and (4) utilize the Shuttle and Spacelab to conduct basic research that complements earth-based life science investigations.