Since inception in 1958, NASA has accomplished many great scientific and technological feats in air and space. NASA technology also has been adapted for many nonaerospace uses by the private sector. NASA remains a leading force in scientific research and in stimulating public interest in aerospace exploration, as well as science and technology in general. Perhaps more importantly, our exploration of space has taught us to view Earth, ourselves, and the universe in a new way.
The Space Shuttle Program left its 30 years of achievements written in the sky above and in the hearts of the astronauts, American and international, who flew in them. Humans have continuously habitated the International Space Station for nearly 15 years doing research to benefit us on Earth and support our journey to Mars. The best is yet to come as NASA develops the capabilities needed to send humans to an asteroid by 2025 and Mars in the 2030s.