Introduction
Space exploration is defined as continually discovering new celestial bodies in the cosmos and learning more about them through ever-evolving and bettering space technology (Traphagan). In actual physical space exploration, unmanned robotic probes and human spaceflight are used in conjunction. When it comes to the study of space, however, the majority of the work is done by astronomers who have access to telescopes. The field of study known as astronomy, which examines the motions of heavenly bodies and how space affects them, has been around for as long as there have been trustworthy records of human history. However, it was not until the early 20th century that large and relatively efficient rockets were developed. This development paved the way for humans to fly into space. The proliferation of scientific information, the promotion of international collaboration, the guaranteeing of humanity’s long-term existence, and the development of military and geopolitical advantages over other states are all frequently cited as justifications for space exploration. Space research has often been utilized as a cover for actual conflict in the context of geopolitical rivalries, such as the Cold War (Holland and Burns).
To further their understanding of the universe, astronauts use cutting-edge technology when they are in space. Before 1957, there had never been a significant attempt to leave the earth’s atmosphere. This changed in 1957. Throughout the Cold War, both the United States and the Soviet Union made attempts to find a solution to their disagreements. With the launch of the first probe into space in 1957, the Soviet Union became the first country to explore the area. It was initially planned for a living being, specifically a dog, to be launched into space. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the United States of America was established in 1958 (David et al.). Its primary organization is tasked with manufacturing satellites and space probes that will be utilized for experimental purposes in space. In addition, scientists research the solar system to expand their knowledge and improve their chances of discovering answers to humanity’s challenges. In 1960, Neil Armstrong served as the captain of the first successful American space mission led by NASA. This space mission was the first ever to visit the moon (David et al.).
Even though it’s only been in the last few decades that there has been a significant uptick in space travel, humans have been fascinated by space ever since the start of humanity. Consequently, the program demands a more considerable amount of funds (Heracleous et al.). The United States of America is just one of many countries that devote significant financial resources to sending humans into space. It has led to various parties having differing perspectives, with proponents saying that the investment is beneficial and opponents believing that the resources could be used for something more significant than what they are now being used for. People have the notion that lowering the costs of space exploration will be beneficial to the economy since it will free up some funds that can be used to address some urgent issues in particular domains. Nevertheless, there is no denying many advantages to exploring space. I think the government should support space exploration due to its significance for society in terms of the natural world, the socioeconomic system, and advancements in technology and science (Heracleous et al.).
One reason to support space exploration is the countless technological advancements that have emerged from it. These advancements have helped a variety of industries, including communication; thus, we must continue to fund space exploration. It has connected people worldwide by making it more straightforward for individuals to exchange information with one another, regardless of where they are physically situated in the world. Businesses, both governmental and private, on a global scale are expanding as a direct result of improvements in the efficiency of communication and coordination made possible by space exploration (ISECG 5). All of these things have been feasible because of the deployment of satellites into space, capable of transmitting audio and video signals. NASA is the government agency in the United States that is in charge of doing research in the fields of aviation and space (Statista.com). Without the human exploration of space, humankind would not have access to the television and communication networks that are currently in existence. Because of space projects, people now can learn about current events worldwide and the dynamic relationship between the earth and its atmosphere. Effective communication not only contributes to the formation of social interactions but also plays a role in space exploration, which brings together specialists from various fields to produce answers to a wide range of societal issues. Because space exploration has improved worldwide communication, it must receive adequate financial support.
The fact that modern society is currently facing one of the most significant challenges on a global scale in the form of climate change is one of the essential arguments in favor of funding space exploration. Our increased knowledge of scientific principles, brought about by the deployment of space satellites, enables us to improve our ability to forecast potentially catastrophic weather phenomena and to issue timely alerts to mitigate the impact of these occurrences (ISECG 7). The rate of global warming, also known as the increase in the average temperature of the world, has been increasing at a faster rate over the last few decades due to the rising concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. It has a lot of negative implications, such as floods and droughts, which put a stop to the economies of many nations and have an effect on the agricultural industry. In addition, exploring space encompasses a range of fields, one of which is promoting public safety through disseminating information and raising consciousness (Statista.com). It suggests that the monies put aside to deal with the aftermath of natural disasters would be reduced. Because countries must advance while monitoring their emissions’ impact on the environment, new space exploration activities need to be supported by governments worldwide. As a consequence, the findings obtained from such research continue to be essential for developing environmentally responsible alternatives that will improve not only the economics of the nation but also the health of its population.
The overwhelming majority of criticisms against space flight centers are on the economic burden imposed by the exorbitantly high operations and equipment costs. People have started questioning whether or not government funds should be spent on such an expensive project when other companies desperately need financial support. As an illustration, the operational costs of NASA in 2017 were expected to be $19.6 billion (Statista.com). They have suggested that the cash be used to solve societal issues such as eliminating poverty and enhancing the health care system. Over 19 billion United States dollars are spent by NASA annually on space research and operations, and this number is expected to rise to 19.6 billion in 20220. (Statista.com). I’m not going to dispute that space exploration is pricey; nonetheless, the advantages much exceed the disadvantages, which is why I believe it’s an investment that should be made. The advancement in technology that comes with space exploration has also encouraged study and development in other sectors, fostering economic growth (ISECG 8). Exploration of space, despite the huge costs involved, is essential to the process of finding long-term solutions because it establishes a connection between past, present, and future changes and the effect those changes have on civilization.
Conclusion
In general, public funding for space exploration should be promoted because of the numerous ways in which it has the potential to improve civilization. These improvements could include improvements in communication as well as environmental benefits. Humanity must pay the price to reap the rewards of space exploration. This is an unavoidable cost. In this circumstance, the sacrifice being asked for is financial help. The nation’s economy benefits from the government’s investments in space research since those investments have a knock-on effect on other industries, such as the technological and medical fields. Those quick to dismiss this proposition because the high-cost explanation is sufficient ought to reevaluate their viewpoint in light of the benefits they have received from telecommunication and environmental satellites. Space exploration is still beneficial to both people and the environment, and it should not be regarded as a waste of resources.
Works Cited
David, Jason W., et al. “A history of the NASA operational spaceflight Surgeon:1958 – Present.” Acta Astronautica, 2022.
Heracleous, Loizos, et al. “Ambidexterity as Historically Embedded Process: Evidence From NASA, 1958 to 2016.” The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, vol. 55, no. 2, 2018, pp. 161-189.
Holland, Dora, and Jack O. Burns. “The American Space Exploration Narrative from the Cold War Through the Obama Administration.” Space Policy, vol. 46, 2018, pp. 9-17.
International Space Exploration Coordination Group (ISECG). Benefits Stemming from Space Exploration. Global Space Exploration Organization, 2013, pp. 1-23.
Statista.com. “NASA Budget Request From 2014 To 2023.” 2018. https://www.statista.com/statistics/264494/nasas-budget/
Traphagan, John W. “Religion, Science, and Space Exploration from a Non-Western Perspective.” Religions, vol. 11, no. 8, 2020, p. 397.
write