NASA discusses space exploration benefits

ST. LOUIS, March 25 (UPI) -- A U.S. space agency deputy administrator and Missouri Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder discussed how space exploration can benefit that state's economy.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Deputy Administrator Shana Dale and Kinder discussed the issues Tuesday during a NASA "Future Forum" in St. Louis. The event is part of a year-long nationwide series of forums marking NASA's 50th anniversary.

Other NASA participants during the forum at the St. Louis Science Center included astronauts Carl Walz and Thomas Jones. Walz, director of the Advanced Capabilities Division in NASA's Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, discussed the agency's plans to return to the moon and travel beyond.

"I am honored to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of NASA," said Kinder. "Missouri has played a fundamental role in the continued efforts of space exploration. Fifty years ago, the Mercury space capsules were developed and built here in St. Louis, helping put the first American into space."