Lots more than the BBC lurk here. While I don't have the statistics Robert or Justin probably have, I do know this place is "observed" by at least two different agencies on a high level as well as numerous congressional staffers collecting info. I'd agree with et - the posts here can be educational even when dealing with those who are just learning about space or who have an agenda. Our civility and professionalism is what keeps the HZ out of the BBS slagheap.

One does need to be careful about what one talks about. Executive order #12968 was complicated enough when dealing with classified information, but it appears simple next to the revisions and additions added since 9-11. So many orders were revised by the creation of the Department of Homeland Security that one needs a three ring binder just to keep track of the laws that are or are not in effect.

As of 1/24/2003 The Homeland Security Office was delegated the right by the President to create "Top Secret" classification as it deems necessary. It creates a whole new loop of arbitrary data that often requires reclassification of old data which had been either declassified or which had received a lower classification. I know why it was done - but I seriously question its efficiency.

Executive Orders 10865 of 2/20/1960 ("Safeguarding Classified Information Within Industry") , Executive Order 12958 of 4/17/1995 ("Classified National Security Information") and Executive Order 12968 of 8/4/1995 ("Access to Classified Information") are still probably the best reads to refer to when referring to classified information. Each agency head should also have their own clear policy and all civilian contractors are usually informed of which laws and orders are applicable to them.

When in doubt - leave it out.

I really feel for Kim as his stuff was educational and harmless. Unfortunately after 9-11 a certain hysteria mentality created many over-reactions alongside the necessary tightening of data.

I think the HZ serves a fine and noble purpose - as one of the few space and politics places on the web where a lot of data and thought flies around at a pretty high frequency. Its fun just reading some posts and learning things and that's what a lot of folks out there are doing. There's also humor here - which helps a lot when dealing with dry and often highly technical data and concepts.

There may be a few changes we need to implement to tighten both security and the content of the zone, but some of those discussions are best handled by e-mail off the pages.

A big hello to all the lurkers (both known and unknown)

;-)

SDAI-Tech1