[eru]

> NASA's space program has nothing to do with profit, it has to do with knowledge. And that can never be replaced by private companies.

Why not?

[quinnchr]

Because long term research requires immense levels of upfront spending with no requirement to turn a profit.

[eru]

IBM, Bell and Xerox are pretty well known for their research efforts.

[nether]

Because NASA's mission is not to turn a profit.

[eru]

Yes, but that doesn't say anything about companies.