As the space shuttle Atlantis landed this morning, ending NASA’s shuttle program after 30 years without another method for astronauts to get into space on American-led missions, some are asking if this is a great leap forward for the space agency, or a small step back for manned space travel. That subject fascinates Pat Duggins, the news director of Alabama Public Radio. His soon to be released book “Trailblazing Mars: NASA’s Next Giant Leap” looks at the future of space travel.
The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!