The question above refers to the 100-Year Starship Project and the need for public support for this project to progress and develop efficiently. Jemison, one of those responsible for the project, says that public support and dedication is essential, however, he is not referring only to the support of the population, but to the commitment of public bodies to stimulate research, scientific progress and the discoveries that project can accomplish. The lack of cooperation from public agencies discourages space travel, due to the lack of resources and funding.
It is combining 2 sentences that could be read alone and still make sence. You can also help identify compound sentences by looking for a conjunction (and, or, for, nor, ect.)