Donald Trump signs law that backs Nasa plans to send people to Mars

Donald Trump has signed a bill that funds Nasa’s plans to send people to Mars for the first time.

The bill authorises £15.2 billion in spending for the US space agency for the current budget year.

It is also the first time in seven years that there has been an authorisation bill for Nasa, according to Republican Senator Ted Cruz, a chief sponsor of the bill.

Mr Cruz joined several astronauts and other politicians in the Oval Office to watch the President sign the bill.

Trump said: “For almost six decades, Nasa’s work has inspired millions and millions of Americans to imagine distant worlds and a better future right here on Earth.

“I’m delighted to sign this bill. It’s been a long time since a bill like this has been signed, reaffirming our commitment to the core mission of Nasa: human space exploration, space science and technology.”

MORE: Princess Anne has backed GM crops – despite Prince Charles’ opposition
MORE: North Korea missile test launch ‘ends in failure’

The measure amends current law to add human exploration of the red planet as a goal for the agency.

It supports use of the International Space Station through until at least 2024, along with private sector companies partnering with Nasa to deliver cargo and experiments, among other steps.

Trump invited several politicians to comment after the signing, starting with Mr Cruz before moving on to Republican Senator Marco Rubio.

When Trump invited Vice President Mike Pence to speak, Mr Pence suggested that former astronaut and Democratic Senator Bill Nelson be allowed to say a few words.

The President joked: ”He’s a Democrat. I wasn’t going to let him speak.”

Top pic: Rex