Date of Completion
Spring 5-1-2024
Project Advisor(s)
Alina Lerman; William Simonsen; Vishal Baloria
University Scholar Major
Accounting
Second University Scholar Major
Individualized Major
Disciplines
Accounting | Other Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration | Policy Design, Analysis, and Evaluation
Abstract
The Artemis program aims to land mankind on the lunar surface for the first time in over fifty years in a vastly changed social and economic climate. In this study, I examine existing literature to contextualize and compare the origins, Congressional authorization and appropriations processes, and public accountability mechanisms of the Apollo program (1961-1972) and the Artemis program (2017-present). I utilize multivariate regression models to examine Congressional responsiveness to public opinions of lunar exploration programs. I find that Congress appears to be responsive to constituent attitudes regarding space exploration, particularly during the Apollo era. I also examine the relationship between funding levels and program metrics and observe a pronounced correlation between underfunding and both cost delays and schedule overruns.
Recommended Citation
Chlebowski, Christian, "Budgeting for the Moon: A Comparative Analysis of Public Support and Financial Performance in the Apollo and Artemis Eras" (2024). University Scholar Projects. 94.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/usp_projects/94