Fly Space Shuttle Seven More Years?!

NASA Administrator Mike Griffin has ordered an internal study of how the Space Transportation System (STS or space shuttle) may continue to service the International Space Station until 2015, according to The Orlando Sentinel.

Griffin, placed under political pressure to keep the space shuttle flying, signaled what could be a huge change in NASA policy. The implications for the Constellation Program schedule and the future retirement of the space shuttle are unclear.

One NASA official said such "what-if studies" represent "prudent planning," especially in light of suggestions made by John McCain, the Republican presidential nominee, who would dicatate the agency's future if he captures the White House.