In a special panel on how to fix NASA, Richard C. Hoagland was joined by David Livingston, the founder of The Space Show, and Rick Sterling, a space expert. First, the three addressed problems with the current Shuttle program-- "we've just been marking time for the last 30 years," with dated technology declared Hoagland, while Sterling pointed out that the program has not been able to inspire excitement among the populace. Livingston noted the delicate nature of the Shuttle, and worried that if there is another fatal accident, all manned missions may be scrapped.

NASA's plans for missions to the moon and Mars involve the use of hardware/architecture that is simply inadequate, said Livingston. Sterling promoted the Direct 2 space transportation system for the missions. Costs could be reduced by billions through eliminating the need for two different launcher systems, he said.

The reason it's taking us so long to get back to the moon is because the higher-ups at NASA are aware of artifacts of previous civilizations on the lunar surface (as well as Mars), and they actually have no intention of going there, Hoagland suggested. Further, he said there is evidence for a secret space program, hidden by black budgets, that probably doesn't use rockets. The whole NASA agenda could be a "false front" to distract the public away from what the other program is doing, he continued.

Tibetan Oracle

During the first half-hour, the Tibetan Oracle Kuten La appeared with an interpreter. One of the topics he addressed was reincarnation-- Buddhist tradition posits future and past lives, and an intermediate state known as the Bardo, he detailed. For a peek into the rituals surrounding the Tibetan Oracle, check out these two video clips posted on YouTube: The State Oracle of Tibet and Enigma- The Oracle.

POW Update

Appearing briefly at the start of the show, Bill Hendon shared an update on American POWs in Viet Nam. He is asking listeners to phone the White House (related link), in advance of the visit of Viet Nam's President on Friday, June 22nd.