There's a lot of strong opposition to JIMO due to its expense but it represents some basic enabling technologies. Developing a nuclear reactor for use in space is essential if we are to establish permanent bases on the Moon or Mars. Also the Nuclear-Electric propulsion technology is essential if we want to engage in extensive exploration of space beyond Mars. Solar power is not an option beyond Mars and RTGs produce very little power. Cassini is collecting huge amounts of data but it is only trickling that data back to Earth because Cassini's transmitter is so under powered. The research and development costs of Cassini are quite large. However once that technology is in hand, it will pay rich dividends.

Gary