Part 5: Chapter 19, Second Thoughts Summary and Analysis

In 1963 NASA began to have budget problems. There were three views competing for support: the pro-Apollo technocratic, anti-Apollo technocratic, and anti-technocratic views. It basically broke down to those for or against the moon landing program. Most people accepted the technocracy by this time so that left just the moon shot as the source of discussion. Many scientists felt that the Apollo program had grown too large and costly and that the funds could be put to a better use. Some wondered how to measure the public worth of the space program.

Eisenhower wanted to know why they were in such a hurry to reach the moon. The Republicans were against the Apollo program and said Kennedy should concentrate on building a strong military presence in space instead. They, including Barry Goldwater, wanted to see the...