O’Brien out/CNN disbands science unit

obriensmall2CNN’s Miles O’Brien (seen here when he did a broadcast from Langley a few years ago) is leaving CNN, because the cable network is disbanding its science, space and technology unit. (See story here)

I watched CNN and FOX news over the weekend when Endeavour landed. There was no comparison between O’Brien’s expertise and the reporter on FOX.

The news viewing public will be considerably less informed without his presence.                                                  Kathy Barnstorff

7 Responses to “O’Brien out/CNN disbands science unit”


  1. 1 Mike F December 4, 2008 at 1:34 pm

    We are losing a great resource. As a former journalist I hesitate to say “friend” because the best you can ask is not support from the media – that’s not their job – but fair and accurate coverage. And that is what Miles provided … which, in some sense, does mean he was a “friend.” I first met Miles in 1993-94 when I was a public affairs specialist at Goddard. I was impressed because not only was he very good, he was a regular guy, not a prima dona like some media celebrities are. I’ll miss him … and the rest of the team … but I’m sure his future will be just as bright and rewarding.

  2. 2 Robert Bryant December 5, 2008 at 8:37 am

    Sad, but not surprising considering the masses are focused on Brad Pitt’s issues with the paparazzi and other such high profile things effecting our daily lives. “Although the facts are interesting, they are irrelevant!” Sorry, I don’t remember where I heard that one….

  3. 3 Gail Langevin December 5, 2008 at 12:39 pm

    So can we invite Miles O’Brien to blog with us about NASA happenings until he becomes affiliated with another network, magazine, paper?

  4. 4 Timothy J. Allen December 5, 2008 at 5:27 pm

    Ah. Miles was a familiar face at press briefings in Texas, especially during Return to Flight.

    I think he should start his own business. Where there is a need, there will be an audience. As Mike F. mentioned today in our tag-up, the trend is more focused “interest specific” outlets. The web lets people micro-target their interests. Maybe Miles has a chance to go even deeper with his reporting and analysis by offering his expertise in a place that values his experience. Perhaps Imaginova (space.com) would be such a place? Miles certainly has the credentials.

  5. 5 mpfinneran December 7, 2008 at 1:24 am

    Gail you’re reading my mind! Preposterous, unlikely, yeah right, etc. … ask him.


  1. 1 MSM 1/Informed Public 0 « New Media Team Trackback on December 4, 2008 at 10:18 am

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