I posted this in the thread below, but nobody commented on it so here it is again...

(a note: at the Mars Society Convention held at the Palmer House Hilton is Chicago August 19-22 many folks presnted new concepts. Here is just one cool idea...):

Larry Kuznetz presented a proposal for a Mars Suit project which would involve ~12 Universities and a number of companies and nonprofit societies (like the Mars Society and the Planetary Society) with oversight by NASA. The primary goal would not be a finished spacesuit. But, prototypes using advanced materials and concepts. This program would provide a pipeline to NASA and the astronautical industry for engineering and science students. If it was started soon the suit concepts would be ready for use about the time the new SEI of Bush would require the ramping up to making true Mars Suits.

As to politics...I respect Tom, Larry and you and others on your opinions on space related stuff and can reasonable understand your interest in having the person you believe is best for the job of POTUS. Just expect me and others to disagree on Bush's competence.