House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) today released a statement following the launch of the Orion spacecraft from Cape Canaveral:

Chairman Smith: “The Orion launch is a major milestone for U.S. space exploration and our efforts to travel further into our solar system than ever before. That is why I place the highest priority on ensuring NASA remains on budget and on schedule with the Space Launch System (SLS).

“I’m extremely committed to the success of NASA’s Orion vehicle and SLS. The Science Committee will once more review the progress of these crucial systems at a hearing next week as part of ongoing oversight responsibilities.”