Space/Science — HabitableZone

Space/Science » in reply to ***As moderator, I have to ask you two a question***

re: ***As moderator, I have to ask you two a question***
Mark Eby — (archived)

It's simple. Many people believe we should target Mars because it is more interesting and a far more likely spot for sustainable colonization. Others think we should focus on the Moon first because it is easier and have the mistaken belief that because it is closer that it is far safer (ignoring that all fatal failures have occured during launch or launch prep and return and even Apollo 13 was in Earth orbit at point of failure). What really irritates the Mars supporters is the misinformation spouted by many moon first supporters that a lunar base will make martian missions more economical. Basic rocket physics and economics show that is a bunch of bull.

EP has nearly unique interests in the Moon, but like many moon supporters highly resents the attention Mars gets recognizing that funds pretty much dictate one or the other near term. Mars firsters resent that the Moon firsters have won a significant battle that may cost us a future in space by taking an unjustified detour to the Moon which may lead to another premature dead end as it did before.

At the moment most Mars supporters are holding their breath and hopeing the return to the Moon program is kept focused on an eventual trip to Mars so that is does not become a huge waste and credibility killer like the ISS. If it does, while not the best option, it is certainly preferable to the lack of progress over the past 30 years. I believe Bush has appointed the right man to sheppard that path and am cautiously optamistic.

Regards,
Mark

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