Michael Collins: Cheapest Tender
on Wednesday, April 28, 2021Michael Collins Money Quote saying the lowest bidder built the Apollo 11 Spacecraft he thought as he orbited the moon alone. Michael Collins said:
“I just kept reminding myself that every single component in this spacecraft was provided by the guy who submitted the cheapest tender” — Michael Collins
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In this quote, astronaut Michael Collins is reflecting on the Apollo 11 mission to the moon. He seems to be acknowledging the financial constraints and budget-conscious nature of NASA procurement for such complex spacecraft.
Collins appears to be suggesting this reality gave him pause, knowing the lives of himself and his crew depended on components selected through a competitive bidding process prioritizing low cost over all other factors.
Overall, the quote conveys Collins maintained perspective about the economic practicalities that made the mission possible, even if it meant safety wasn’t the primary consideration in contracting decisions for such high-risk endeavors. It portrays his candid acknowledgement of both national priorities and personal risks involved.
Birthday: October 31, 1930 – Death: April 28, 2021