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Why We Need to Keep Going to Space and Shouldn't 'Fix Earth First'

  • Writer: Martian to be
    Martian to be
  • Jul 19, 2023
  • 3 min read

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The idea that we should "fix Earth first" before we go to space is a common one. However, there are many reasons why this is a false dichotomy. First, space exploration can help us to solve problems on Earth. For example, research into new energy sources and technologies could help us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. Second, space exploration can help us to learn more about our place in the universe. This knowledge could help us to make better decisions about how to manage our planet and its resources. Third, space exploration is a source of inspiration and hope for many people. It shows us that anything is possible, and it gives us a sense of purpose.


The idea of colonizing Mars has been around for centuries, but it is only in recent decades that technology has begun to make it a realistic possibility. In the past few years, there have been several major advances in space exploration, including the development of reusable rockets, the construction of larger and more capable spacecraft, and the development of new technologies for living and working in space. These advances have made it possible to envision a future in which humans live and work on Mars on a permanent basis.


However, there is a common argument that we should not focus on space exploration until we have "fixed Earth first." This argument is based on the idea that we need to solve all our problems on Earth before we can afford to explore other planets. However, there are many reasons why this is a false dichotomy.


First, space exploration can help us to solve problems on Earth. For example, research into new energy sources and technologies could help us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. In addition, space exploration can help us to develop new technologies that can be used to improve our lives on Earth, such as new medical treatments and new ways to grow food. Second, space exploration can help us to learn more about our place in the universe. This knowledge could help us to make better decisions about how to manage our planet and its resources. For example, if we learn that there is life on other planets, it could change our perspective on our own planet and its importance. Third, space exploration is a source of inspiration and hope for many people. It shows us that anything is possible, and it gives us a sense of purpose. Space exploration can inspire people to become scientists, engineers, and other innovators. It can also inspire people to care about the environment and to work to make the world a better place. So, there are many reasons why we need to keep going to space and should not "fix Earth first." Space exploration can help us to solve problems on Earth, learn more about our place in the universe, and inspire people to make the world a better place. A 100 km-sized asteroid impact may transform the Earth into an inhospitable planet, thus causing the extinction of many life forms including the human species. So, what do you think? What will happen if the asteroid impact causes human extinction? Feel free to comment below. References Zubrin, R. (2011). The case for Mars: The plan to settle the red planet and why we must. New York: Simon & Schuster. Cockell, C. S. (2016). The human exploration of Mars: Successes, failures, and future prospects. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Lewis, J. S. (2010). The science of space colonization. New York: Springer. We value your ideas and you are feel free to comment below.


 
 
 

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