Pioneer 10 shows that NASA was once visionary and will be again. It was launched in 1972 and is still going:

"Originally designed for a 21-month mission, Pioneer 10 lasted more than 30 years. It was a workhorse that far exceeded its warranty, and I guess you could say we got our money's worth," said Pioneer 10 Project Manager, Dr. Larry Lasher.

I hope that NASA gets more funding and develops a newer higher tech version of the shuttle.