
Response to OPINION: “EARTH FIRST” – AN EMOTIONAL ARGUMENT LACKING UNDERSTANDING OF THE FACTS. Space is expensive. However, most people that follow the space industry know that a initial investment is necessary for almost an infinite return later. And there is some top down economics happening as well. All the advance systems built are paid to some one. And they buy houses, commodities, investments, and give charity to important causes. In the long run, I think it just adds to the GDP. Long term, people do want to see a return on these investments, like being so they can buy a ticket to go live on the moon for a month. I think we have gotten a good return on space exploration via numerous new technologies, advancement on research, and a highly skilled aerospace work force.Furthermore, I think we are closer to a out post on the moon then we realize. When I say close I mean like 5-20 years. I think we have the technology to do it now, but it should be done safely and efficiently with a eye on long term return. A Long term return should include how do we increase traffic to space efficiently. Some very badly needed infrastructure might be needed to really cut costs of launches. Like the US highway System....