A survey conducted by The Space Foundation reveals more than three-fourths of the total population - 77 percent - of Americans support a new plan for space exploration; an increase from last year's 68 percent support result.

Such a plan would include returning the space shuttle to flight, completing assembly of the International Space Station, the building of a replacement shuttle, and missions returning to the Moon and Mars.

According to survey results, seven in ten adults - 71 percent - have an interest in America's space program - 80 percent agreeing it helps give America the scientific and technological edge in competition with international marketplaces.

Politically, a majority of Democrats - 77 percent - and Republicans - 84 percent - join the general public in their support of not only the program, but its funding.

Almost three-fourths - 73 percent - of America adults support NASA's budget staying the same, or even being increased.

Currently, NASA's share of the total federal budget is 0.7 percent - about $58 per year for the average citizen.

More than three-fourths - 76 percent - of Americans have some leve of agreement that the space program benefits the nation's economy - inspiring students to pursue careers in technical fields.

Results are based on a national telephone survey of 1001 adult men and women over the age of 18. The survey was conducted by The Gallup Organization's full-time interviewing staff from June 9 - July 1, 2005.

The survey was funding by The Coalition for Space Exploration, a diverse group of companies, nonprofit organizations, trade organizations and unions working in support of the nation's Vision for Space Exploration.

The Space Foundation, founded in 1983, is a national nonprofit organization located in Colorado Springs that works to advance civil, commercial, and national security space endeavors and education.