SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Pastimes : Don't Ask Rambi
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: Jacques Chitte who wrote (29871)6/24/1999 7:57:00 PM
From: Jacques Chitte  Read Replies (4) of 71178
 
I was chewing the fat with a colleague when I had one of my Ideas. Y'know, sounds good at first and even though it runs against my better judgment I can't quite shake it.

Here it is: Let's establish a sort of "intercultural program" to give our most imperiled urban youth "hands-on" involvement in one of our nations greatest and most visible ongoing achievements in science and engineering.
The Space Shuttle external tank is finished in a very unhip orange primer. And it is an expendable part - it burns up after its one use. I was thinking that each mission-ready external tank could be placed in some corner of the Cape Canaveral facility. A busload of volunteers from an urban center is obtained, perhaps from the local law enforcement authorities. Call it community service. Then these kids are issued cans of spray paint and encouraged to "tag up" the outside of the External Tank. Some graffiti are really quite elaborate and colorful.
Just think. A young gang member (or otherwise apprehended graffiti vandal) can return from his diversion field trip, turn on a Shuttle launch, and call all his local colleagues and proudly point out Sector 43. "That's us, homeboy!" Make them all feel like they are a part of this team effort.
The only technical objection I can find is that it will add a coupla hundred pounds of weight to the tank. I wonder if this is an acceptable price to pay for the pride this would instill in entire neighborhoods. Next mission - another inner city's kids put their very own colors on the tank.
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News