I agree that space exploration is extremely important, for both practical and inspirational reasons. But it also is expensive and dangerous; every effort we make in space should be made with the idea that it can be leveraged into bigger and better projects down the line. It should all be part of a program where different parts of it complement one another and have a high benefit/cost ratio. We don't want to sail to the distant land just to build a fort in the harbor, leaving the vast interior unexplored.
My preference would be an expanded LEO capability, a vigourous robotic probe program, and
an occasional manned planetary or lunar mission to exploit high value scientific goals while developing our spacefaring skills. Besides, if we are going to rely on private enterprise to do the bulk of the work, as many space enthusiasts here feel, only the high potential profit/ low risk ventures are going to be attempted.
Space/Science » in reply to re: Can anyone explain why we need a lunar colony?
Inspiring, but is it practical?
The whole thread (32 posts)
- 3 out of 4 18-24 year olds oppose spending money on sending men to Mars
- Actually that general apathy in the actual youth holds true for all things science and manned Lunar missions as well.
- NASA can't explain why we need a lunar colony