Today, President Obama released his proposed budget for FY 2013.  The budget includes $1.2 billion for the Orion space capsule project and $916 million for the Suomi Polar Orbiting Partnership (formerly the JPSS weather satellite satellite system).

"The United States is a nation of vision and exploration.  Investments in the next generation of aerospace projects will power our economic security and prosperity," said Perlmutter.  These Colorado aerospace projects are leading the world in innovation and promoting the kinds of good paying, stable private sector jobs of the future which will lead our state and nation in creating a secure, stable economy built to last."

The Orion space capsule project employs approximately 1,000 people working with Lockheed Martin and other local aerospace companies based in Colorado.  The Orion space capsule is designed to continue our manned missions into deep space, which will help assure the United States' continued access to the International Space Station.

The Suomi Polar Orbiting Partnership is the nation's next generation weather satellite system and will provide advanced warning about natural disaster threats approximately five days earlier than current systems.  This warning will allow local communities, FEMA and other first responders to provide more efficient resources and protection for communities threatened by natural disasters.  It is being developed by The Raytheon Company and Ball Aerospace and other aerospace companies in Colorado who employ more than 400 people in the state. 

"Colorado is at the forefront of growth in the aerospace industry.  With our world class universities and a creative, dedicated workforce, these are the jobs of the future and we must maintain them and enable them to grow.  I urge Congress to authorize and fund these projects at the President's requested amount," said Perlmutter.

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