I read the discussion on this thread and observed that we Zoners, as a representative sample of the broader community of space advocates, are already falling into the trap of squabbling over our long term goals in space at a time when even the short-term first stages are at risk because of Columbia and the current political and economic environment.
We shouldn't focus on building a spacecraft exclusively for the purpose of getting to Mars, or build one for the purpose of going to the Moon. We should focus on creating a spacecraft that can get us to any location. A "generic" exploration craft could go anywhere in the inner solar system whether it be the Moon, Mars, NEOs, L1, L2, L3, or wherever.
For right now people should put aside their differences on where to go and concentrate on how to get there. Setting up shop is easy, getting to the location is the hard part.
Space/Science » in reply to What's the "we" crap, Kemosabe?
Which is why we need a generic space program.
The whole thread (44 posts)
- Bill to restore vision for Human spaceflight
- CAIB Report roots
- Begin With The End In Mind - Steven Covey
- re: Don't take this personally - just noticed your 1st person perspective
- The good thing about baby steps
- The Problem With Baby Steps Is Risk Of Incompletion
- re: I have a better idea of a technological challenge
- This Is The Problem When You Have Politicians Set Technical Goals
- CAIB Report roots