What is manned exploration?

Manned Exploration, commonly referred to in NASA as Manned Flight, is any mission which involves the direct participation in space of a human being, be it as a pilot, specialist, or just a casual observer. The 2 most notable current MF programs are the International Space Station and the Space Shuttle. All NASA Manned Flight missions are directed from the main Mission Control Center in Houston, Texas, at the Johnson Space Center.

Unlike unmanned satellite programs, Manned Flight programs are much more stringently controlled , Higher QA and manufacturing controls, a LOT more documentation (reams....), and more procedural controls are the biggest differences, as the smallest mistake can lead to catastrophic failure leading to loss of crew, vehicle, or both.

In all cases where loss of life has happened (Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia), one of those 3 elements was found to be lacking.

As one who worked NASA Manned Flight programs for many years, I can say that the awareness of the responsibility for us working those programs was extremely high. Everyone knows what the stakes are each time a manned mission flies - and everyone feels it if something goes wrong.