NASA shuttle missions are scheduled to end later this year or early next year. NASA has two scheduled flights this fall. Some members of Congress want one more flight, possibly next June.

The closing of the shuttle program could lay off as many as 20,000 contract and subcontract workers, according to the Department of Labor. Commenting on the move, Labor Secretary, Hilda Solis, said: "By no means are we somehow turning off the spigot and saying we're going to close shop here. ... We're going to continue to push for more research, more technological breakthrough and continue to foster that growth that's occurred here over the last few decades."

The recession has led everyone with a budget to question ever line. From households to businesses to state and federal governments, nothing is sacred. Finding new ways to get the same result without spending the same amount mean not having to make sacrifices. NASA has been under considerable financial pressure, as many question the value of sinking cash into space travel. So, it has to get creative in justifying its existence ... and in generating excitement about the agency and what it does.

When the space shuttle launches on Monday, 200 thumbs will be at the ready. NASA has deputized 100 of its top fans on Twitter to come to the launch and tweet the experience. These fans are estimated to have more than 150,000 followers, all with the potential to retweet the messages they see. Every click of an iPhone or Blackberry will give NASA more exposure, building the excitement it needs to keep the operation afloat. So, whether you realize it or not, the launch is being brought to you by Twitter, Apple (AAPL) and Research in Motion (RIMM), even if only implicitly.