Washington, DC – House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Ranking Member Frank Lucas released a statement today celebrating the 70thanniversary of the National Science Foundation:

“The NSF has a long history of global leadership in basic research,” said Lucas. “Over the past 70 years, they’ve developed extensive knowledge in clean energy technology, improved our understanding of weather and the environment, and explored the depths of space – all the while supporting STEM education that keeps the U.S. competitive and secure.”

Lucas noted some of NSF’s major achievements, including developing theinternet, Doppler radar technology, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), as well as producing the first-ever image of a black hole.

“To understand the importance of basic research, you just have to look at a list of NSF’s accomplishments over the past 70 years,” Lucas said. “When we invest in basic research through NSF, we’re investing in our future, and the development of technologies and innovations that we can’t yet imagine.”

Lucas also thanked Director Dr. France Córdova for her years of service to NSF, and welcomed nominated director Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan:

“Dr. Córdova has shown exceptional leadership at NSF and I appreciate her service. She’s leaving NSF in good hands with Dr. Panchanathan and I look forward to the Foundation’s future accomplishments.”

Lucas also recorded a farewell video for Dr. Córdova thanking her for her work.Watch here.

Lear more about the National Science Foundation’s 70th Anniversary Symposium: https://www.nsf.gov/about/history/

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