A diplomatic mission in orbit

First components of Mir launched

U.S. involvement in Mir was always political, a high-profile example of post-Cold War cooperation between former space-race rivals.

In 1994, the United States and Russia signed the agreement that led to joint operations aboard Mir. The U.S. agreed to pay some $400 million in rent, and the Russians agreed to extend the station's use far beyond its planned life span.

Congressman David Weldon, a Republican whose Florida district includes Cape Canaveral, sees U.S.-Russian reconciliation as one of the project's successes.

"I think all Americans welcome the lessening of tensions between us and Russia and would like to see that continue forever," Weldon said. "The space program, I think, has facilitated that, and I think that's a good reason to continue with U.S. and Russian cooperative efforts."

"But we need to go into them with a realistic appreciation of what we're getting into with the Russians," he said.

Part 3: Trouble in orbit sparks tempest in Washington

---

 

---

Sound off on our message boards & chat

© 1998 Cable News Network, Inc.
A Time Warner Company
All Rights Reserved.

Terms under which this service is provided to you.
Read our privacy guidelines.