Obama sets conference on future of space program

[March 08, 2010]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama plans to host a conference in Florida next month on his administration's approach to the next step in space exploration.

The White House says Obama and top officials as well as leaders in space will discuss the future of U.S. efforts in human space flight. Details of the conference, scheduled for April 15, are to be announced later.

America's space program is in a holding pattern of sorts. Its space shuttle fleet is being retired this year, and the administration is dropping plans for a return to the moon.

The White House says Obama will unveil an "ambitious plan" for NASA. For now, Obama's budget backs private spaceships and developing new rocket technology.

[Associated Press]

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