As part of that initiative, DARPA—the legendary advanced research arm of the Pentagon that's known for sponsoring way-out-there research—last year paid nearly $100,000 for a workshop that included a discussion session entitled "Did Jesus Die for Klingons, Too?" The seminar focused on the implications for Christianity if intelligent life were to be found on other planets, the report said.

Klingons are a fictional warlike alien race from the long running "Star Trek" franchise. But the theological question could be just as easily posed of Romulans, Vulcans or even Ewoks, although Ewoks are from "Star Wars," and are more cuddly than Klingons.

Coburn's point is that in a time of staggering budget deficits and potentially rising taxes, the Pentagon—even in its pointy-headed research department—ought to be more judicious with taxpayer dollars. (Read More: Obama: Ending Tax Cuts for Rich Resolves Half of 'Cliff'.)

Coburn's report notes that headliners at the event included former "Star Trek" actors LeVar Burton and Nichelle Nichols, and it included an event called an "intergalactic gala celebration" to which attendees were encouraged to wear "starship cocktail attire."

The Klingon discussion is just one example of Pentagon waste drawing Coburn's ire.



