  Space Science enjoys broad public support in the US. People say they follow
developments with interest, and that the programs are worth their cost. This
attitude seems to arise in part because of the intrinsic accessibility and
appeal of the subject matter. Yet at the same time the public is often
disturbingly ignorant about basic facts. In this article I summarize recent
survey results, including attitudes towards basic research, and also consider
some of the criticisms of the polling methods. I argue that the results imply
vigorous and innovative education and outreach programs can and should be made
even more effective -- but that the consequences of success for Space Science
research itself are not obvious. I outline two popular education programs which
address some of the new challenges facing Space Science outreach.
