Wait, some budget aerobracking thoughts took place this Sept.
Yes, this idea has been going around for a while now and even Dan Goldin has mentioned (in a recent article after his resigning) that he would like to see more privatization of the shuttle, etc. (really, I saw that article and I can't find it now).
KSC Considers Privatizing Base
By Steven Siceloff
FLORIDA TODAY
posted: 09:05 am ET
18 September 2001
http://www.space.com/news/ksc_private_010918.html
ISS/Alpha space 'renters' will definitely help.
Marcia (just looking for a light at the end of this tunnel)