How are you going to look at this argument on the Columbia tragedy and its 'contribution' content ? Wouldn't it be better to search for another example, if what is written here is true ?
http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2003/02/03/stories/2003020302761300.htm
I think the message in the original article is more important(for Free Software Movement). We can go on debating about usefulness of manned space mission and that issue is not very important in Free Software. (Doesnt mean that i disagree(or agree) with the argument in Hindu article)
arun.