It appears to be "all-systems go" once again at NASA with the approval of a mission to save the Hubble Space Telescope.

The decision by NASA Administrator Michael D. Griffin is an important one for both practical and symbolic reasons.

More than an attempt to save one of NASA's most durable space projects, the decision is boldly reminiscent of the spirit that put the U.S. in the space business in the first place. It's reaffirming to see a sense of discovery that understands both the risks and the rewards of space exploration.

Indeed, the Hubble has been used to reap many rewards. Approved by Congress in 1977, the Hubble was placed into orbit in 1990. Since that time, it has sent thousands of images back to our scientists to help unlock the mysteries of the universe.

To continue at that level, the Hubble would need significant upgrades, including new cameras, batteries and gyroscopes. All of that would require the use of a manned Space Shuttle mission to make the repairs and upgrades.

After the Columbia shuttle tragedy in 2003, NASA understandably became more cautious about manned space missions. And when the idea of repairing the Hubble was initially proposed, the safety of the astronauts was the primary concern.

Griffin noted that shuttles today are safer. And there's a suitable plan to send a second shuttle if something should go awry with the repair mission.

At a time when the administration has announced its plans to use the space program more for national security and defense reasons, the decision to repair and save the Hubble telescope is important. It is recognition that our universe is still worth exploring, and that our possibilities as a nation are limitless.