http://www.washingtontimes.com/op-ed/20040101-100631-8430r.htm

"The nation needs an overarching goal for space that encompasses science and creates popular interest and excitement. Human exploration of Mars fits the bill perfectly. It would completely transform our understanding of the origin of the solar system and of the possibility of life beyond our small blue planet. And it can be done within the present NASA budget.
First, however, a true confession: I have been active in space projects since the very beginning, more than 50 years ago. To me, a base on the Moon is just the Space Station writ large ? and a lot more expensive. The scientific payoff is minimal and the cost exorbitant. Besides, we've done that. Habitation of Mars has at least some novelty — but it too will soon wear off. Bases on asteroids or colonies out there in space? Forget it.
I don't buy all of the "human destiny in space" slogans — I want exploration. Mars is the most promising target. There is nothing like it in the solar system — Earth-like and accessible. So, let's look at the why and the how. .........."

see ya