When I meet someone for the first time and tell them that I do research for a living, I know exactly what they are thinking – I don’t actually do anything, and I get paid for it. 

One of the most audacious research efforts in recent memory, NASA’s Space Program led to the now legendary “small step for a man”, which should have been justification enough.  Still, there were plenty of skeptics who thought the money for that very pricey E-ticket moon ride could have been better spent elsewhere.  NASA officials were quick to point out that neither Tang nor a pen that writes in zero gravity would exist were it not for their research.

While I have yet to use my space pen, I did watch in wonder on that warm July night as mankind took a giant leap.  I’ve come to realize that there will always be those who prefer real tangible things over experiences, regardless of how awe-inspiring they may be.  Assigning a value to research will always be frustrating.  <continue reading>