why should we spend vast amounts to reach Mars when there is a very high
chance of its not providing anything that would improve our lot here on Earth?
Why not allocate those billions for "home improvement"? Think of the progress
that could be made in curing cancer, AIDS, and other diseases; in cleaning
our water, air, and soil; and in feeding hungry nations. Why confront the hazards
of outer space when we should be fighting homelessness, poverty, and
unemployment on Earth?