Mueller discusses the upcoming Apollo 8 mission and the goal of circumlunar flight. His discussion is within the context of advocating the importance of the space program to the future viability of the United States. Citing advancements in science and technology, which have been, and will continue to be, brought about by the space program, Mueller asserts that the economic benefits for the U.S. and its industries will make the investment worthwhile. Furthermore, he notes that technology has always ensured the "balance of power among nations...in one form or another."