Comment Originally Posted at NASAWATCH
@Lee Holmes
I independently came to the same reaction to that sign as Keith. I certainly can’t speak as if I were closer to the Orbiters Columbia and Challenger than any USA employee, but perhaps my love for the Shuttle program, and my anger and sadness at the two losses provoked a similar gut reaction.
In my opinion, that sign was shortsighted and in poor taste given the NASA’s history. Moreover, it is demonstrably unfair to our Russian partners who have been doing a better, more consistent job at bringing Cosmonauts home than we ever have.
Even though you’re right, it’s “Just-a-sign” for cryin out lod, for events where the press and the public at large are watching…it’s better to think the message a little more thoroughly.
Just my two cents…