After the meteor that struck Siberia, they have been renewed calls to create a proper system to defend the world against such incoming disasters.
Given President Obama's desire to pass a stimulus plan, and the unlikelihood of Republicans to go along, and given the Republicans desire to increase military spending, and the unlikelihood of Democrats to go along, we see this a feasible way toward compromise.
The government indeed should invest the money in job creating research, including the technologies to detect and stop incoming objects from outer space, and build up a missile defense system that for once would in no way be used against fellow human beings.
It is a peaceful, well-rounded, farsighted necessity. A true investment in our common safety and future welfare.