It is a sad but true reality, the age of human space exploration is slowly dying off. Sure we have people up on the ISS, but what does that fully count for, that not as much exploration as it is experimentation.
For those who have not messed around on xkcd ever, one of the features of the site is rollover text so I will just write it out here: "The universe is probably littered with one-planet graves of cultures which made the sensible economic decision that there's no good reason to go into space -- each discovered, studied, and remembered by the ones who made the irrational decision."
Let that sink in.
I recognize that economic viability is smart to a degree, but what should it matter in the long run, think on a personal level, would you rather exist alone with money or would you rather have slight financial problems but have friends, fun , and constant potential for exploration.
May the stars shine brightly in your skies.
It's definitely sad to think that today will possibly be the very last shuttle launch, at least in American history. Although one has to wonder if our technology will advance far enough where the economics to get into space will be very little. Perhaps when we find an unlimited fuel source...
ReplyDeleteI like this post! You're forcing us to have a debate other than the economic one, about who we are as humans and why exploration is important. I may not agree with you, but I like the shift in the discussion.
ReplyDeleteNice post...I enjoy the graph. It really symbols a lot about our space programs and the direction it should not be going.
ReplyDeleteBeam me up Scotty...