Final answer:
The NASA Commercial Crew Program is important for maintaining the US' capability to send astronauts to space, fostering competition in the space industry, and allowing NASA to focus on other missions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The NASA Commercial Crew Program is actually important for several reasons. First, it provides a way for the United States to maintain its own capability to send astronauts to space, instead of relying solely on other countries. This program supports the development of spacecraft that can transport crew members to and from the International Space Station, ensuring continuity in human space exploration.
Second, the Commercial Crew Program fosters competition among private companies to develop safe and cost-effective space transportation systems. This helps drive innovation and efficiency in the space industry.
Lastly, by involving private companies, NASA can focus its resources on other important missions, such as deep space exploration and scientific research, while still having access to reliable crew transportation to the space station.