Aerospace and military [Technology development]

This paper presents an overview of technology development highlights for 1997. This summer will see the Earth invading Mars as the United States renews its efforts to explore the Red Planet. Another beachhead in space will take shape in late 1997 as the assembly of the International Space Station starts after more than 10 years of planning. In the defense arena, technology of President Ronald Reagan´s Strategic Defense Initiative will move back to center stage as projects to build antimissile laser systems are revived. Moreover, aerospace companies will look toward designs and technologies for military and civil aircraft that will see the light in the 21st Century.