<OT> oh, my

[David A. Bandel]

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On Sat, 17 Jan 2004 08:18:44 -0500
dep <dep at linuxandmain.com> wrote:

> http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/space/01/14/cnna.powell/

Dennis,

Generally, I'd agree with you.  But the last para ... "Going to Mars is
something that I think we almost have to take off the table right now
... " I can't agree with.

Problem is, if you forget Mars, then the Moon becomes the focus.  It is
the goal.  In fact, the goal must _always_ be the step beyond.  Once we
are on the moon and starting for Mars, the goal must then shift to one
or more of Jupiter's moons (Io comes to mind, although it might be too
geologically active).  Without the far vision (in this case Mars), we'll
overlook things we'll need to take that next step.  Those things will be
left out for expediency, etc.  It also reduces the incentive for others
(especially private ventures) to follow.

I believe one of the big reasons private enterprise hasn't been too
quick to jump at commercializing space (in this case meaning high earth
orbit) is because they see no focus on going further.  Once we're well
on the way to the moon, I bet we'll see renewed private sector interest
in the space station.  If we're focused on Mars, more private sector
interests will look to the moon.  Same holds for Mars if we're looking
toward Jupiter's moons.

The most expensive part of space travel (IINM) is leaving the planetary
gravity well.  If we're not focused on solar system colonization and
exploration, why bother?  In fact, I suggest we should be paying more
attention to the moon's La Grange points than the moon itself, although
certainly the moon affords more resources locally at a very slight
penalty due to its small gravity well.

Ciao,

David A. Bandel
- -- 
Focus on the dream, not the competition.
		Nemesis Racing Team motto
GPG key autoresponder:  mailto:david_key at pananix.com
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