Were NASA (or certain elements within) aware that STS-107 Columbia was doomed shortly after launch?
I have the following proposals:
1) We drink a toast to SOYUZ. Those on the ISS will be grateful that there is an alternative space program.
2) That a shuttle be permanently positioned at the ISS in order to perform SAR missions in near-Earth orbit.
3) That all future missions incorporate "crew" escape modules allowing for evacuation to another shuttle in space or re-entry under their own means.
4) That future missions rigourously incorporate the ability to "proceed by their own means to the ISS".
If future space missions are to be pursued, then it is high time that these cease to be regarded as a "dice with death".