"Space exploration brings enormous national security, economic and scientific benefits to our nation and should be a win-win issue for all the candidates to endorse," Blakey said. "Presidential hopefuls should make their support of Constellation clear and make it an integral part of their campaigns."

Over the last two weeks Constellation has emerged as a campaign issue after suggestions by candidates from both parties that the program could be delayed. Other candidates immediately countered with their strong support of the program.

Under current funding, there will be a five-year gap in U.S. manned space access after the shuttles are retired in 2010. During that time the United States will need to rely on Russia for access to the International Space Station, which was recently designated a U.S. national laboratory.

Constellation will have a powerful effect in attracting students to science, technology, engineering and mathematics studies, disciplines in which the nation is lacking, Blakey said.

Founded in 1919, the Aerospace Industries Association represents the nation's leading manufacturers and suppliers of civil, military, and business aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, space systems, aircraft engines, materiel, and related components, equipment services, and information technology.

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