In light of the Armstrong Williams and Kos controversies, and now this story about Maggie Gallagher, it occurs to me that I should disclose formally that I've been doing some consulting for one of the CEV/Exploration contractors (Boeing) for the past few months. I don't think that it's influenced my blogging at all (other than reducing the volume, because I've been busy), though it's possible that I've been a little more reticent to rant at some things than I might if I weren't in the middle of them.

I've hinted at this in the past, but I just wanted to make it clear. I certainly haven't posted anything here with the intent of explicitly aiding Boeing's strategic efforts, and I in fact continue to believe that CEV in anything resembling its current form (entry body on an expendable rocket) is a huge mistake (not a position that Boeing would ever publicly take, I suspect). But I did want to avoid any major payola scandals that might get reported by Howie Kurtz.

AHA!!!

I don't know what I mean by that, but it sounded good in light of your shocking admission.

Rand,
I think you've done all necessary, I remember your replies to several of my emails, wherein you explained that you couldn't comment or whatever as you were involved with one or more of the prinicipals engaged in the activity on which I was trying to elicit your view.
You're as clean as a Darwinist can be. Heh!

Oh come on!

Rand should at least be required to do some sort of lip service to self-flagellation. If not, then how can he regain his 'moral authoritay'?

It seems to work pretty well for the Russians. In fact, their Soyuz-replacement mockup looks like a good candidate for the CEV.

Phoenix/Delta Clipper would be lots better, but who in NASA is going to allow that to be built?