360 degrees: Space Exploration

The exploration of space is a monumental endeavor taken up by humanity. Using sophisticated tools like the Hubble space telescope, for example, we have been able to observe the visible universe from thousands of light years away. Coincidentally, due to this we are staring thousands of years into the past as well, greatly enriching the institution of Science and opening up new questions. However, amidst benefits, there are many associated issues with space exploration.

For one, it is a very risky procedure. Sending astronauts and cosmonauts into space, whether to

walk on the moon, or to repair the Hubble telescope, is life threatening. Even a minor miscalculation

can potentially cause an end to the mission, and to the lives of those executing it.

Secondly, is it really right for governments to spend billions of dollars funding space programs when

there is so much work to do to improve humanity? If the purpose OF space exploration is to

enhance Science, and the purpose of Science to understand the world, which would make life

better for people, then the direct approach would be more efficient.

Also, in the sake of exploring, the Earth hasn't been completely explored yet either. We may be

jumping ahead of ourselves exploring beyond our planet before we explored our planet itself.

Others might also say that as humans we destroy everything we set foot on, and by colonizing

space we would merely start a long trek of slowly destroying the universe.

On the brighter side, space exploration has also become a vehicle for peace. With the construction

of the International Space Station, some 16 countries contribute to, collaborate, and cooperate

beyond the confines of the Earth. The more countries are involved, the more interconnected the

world becomes, with common goals, making war an increasingly difficult thing to achieve.

Lastly, the prospects of discovering the unknown, for understanding the universe, and

accomplishing the once impossible feeds the curiosity of many people. This creates a sort of

distraction (like television might for some) from the problems that ail the world today. Almost like

glimmer of hope, to find that which is greater than ourselves.