Several decades ago, space exploration seemed like a dream of “drunken” scientists. To a good deal of individuals, it was simply impossible because many did not believe regular space tourism was achievable. However, several mind-blowing technological breakthroughs and developments, such as 5G networks, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI), have turned space exploration into an exciting and rapidly growing field for relentless, visionary trailblazers.
Over the past few decades, scientists have opened the eyes of governments and many private individuals to the possibilities of space exploration. As a result, governments have invested massive resources in research and technologies that have pushed the frontiers of the field. And today, the future of space exploration holds great promise. However, should you be concerned about space exploration, and should you be curious about its possibilities?
We cannot discount the fact that the advances and developments in space exploration are truly mind-blowing. From landing on the moon to establishing international space stations, space exploration has challenged humanity with even more puzzles and space scientists have proven that human intelligence should be celebrated. Because of space exploration, the current interest in the search for life outside Earth is taking giant leaps toward space tourism, which is poised to become a major industry in the future. Also, a comprehensive exploration of Mars, a long-term goal for space agencies worldwide, equally appears to be within arm’s reach. These developments have borne several merits that should make further space explorations delightful prospects to many.
Some of these merits are several spin-off technologies, such as GPS, cochlear implants, and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors. Another is the discovery of extraterrestrial resources and the possibility of extraterrestrial habitation, which could help humans reduce the strain on Earth’s resources. Another important merit is that space exploration helps scientists to discover ways to prevent asteroids from hitting the Earth and potentially prevent an occurrence that can decimate the population of humanity and other life on Earth. With all these merits notwithstanding, space exploration has its challenges.
Topping the list of challenges is space debris. Debris on Earth is already a significant problem for humans to deal with. With more and more objects being launched into space, the risk to astronaut and spacecraft safety, as well as other accidents, increases. Also, every journey into space by humans or human-controlled technologies heightens the severity of existential problems, such as climate change, that have led to the clarion call for sustainability in recent years.
Indeed, space exploration is an exciting field with many incredible benefits. However, our acknowledgment of its benefits should not make us less concerned about its challenges.
So how can mankind strike the perfect balance between chasing cosmic dreams and being responsible space explorers? The answer lies in our hands. We must embrace space exploration with an eye on sustainability, lest we risk dire consequences to our planet. And we must always remember that as citizens of Earth, we owe it to posterity to extol sustainability in all our quests.
Yetunde is smart, kind, and has a lovable personality. A constant learner with an impressive work ethic and terrific creative skills. She is devoted to personal and spiritual growth and she cherishes the company of people, books, and nature.
