ASTRA commends President Obama for the outstanding goals articulated in his "Necessity of Science" Speech before the National Academies of Science on April 27, 2009. We believe the President's words say it all:

At such a difficult moment, there are those who say we cannot afford to invest in science, that support for research is somehow a luxury at moments defined by necessities. I fundamentally disagree. Science is more essential for our prosperity, our security, our health, our environment and our quality of life than it has ever been before.

ASTRA applauds - and enthusiastically embraces - what the President himself has called "the largest commitment to scientific research and innovation in American history."

Specifically, ASTRA supports the goal to devote more than 3 percent of GDP to research and development and bolster efforts to improve math and science education. This will help America to exceed the level achieved at the height of the Space Race, create new incentives for revitalizing America's competitiveness, and restore U.S. science, engineering and innovation leadership.

We urge all Americans to get behind the President and support this bold new vision for our country.

Transcript of President Obama's speech.

Video of President Obama's speech.