The Value of Space Exploration: A Response to Criticism of the New Horizons Mission
In the wake of the New Horizons mission to Pluto, criticisms arise questioning the value of space exploration. This article explores the importance of such missions in advancing human knowledge and addressing broader issues.
- July 15, 2015
- Reading time approximately 2 minutes
As the New Horizons spacecraft completes its historic flyby of Pluto and its moons, discussions surrounding the mission's value have already ignited. Within just 24 hours of the event, critical voices have emerged questioning the necessity of such an endeavor.
One comment from tagesschau.de, dated July 15, 2015, encapsulates a common sentiment:
On July 15, 2015, at 09:12, mr.quick stated: There are other problems... I believe there are other, more urgent issues on our 'home planet' that humanity should address. This whole enterprise is more than unnecessary and has no practical benefit.
Historically, dissenting opinions about space exploration have existed, even before the internet made them more widely accessible. In earlier times, individuals might have expressed their views locally, but today, such thoughts can quickly reach a global audience. It raises the question: is this criticism from a provocateur, a comedian, or someone genuinely uninformed?
The frequently cited argument that “there are other and more urgent problems on Earth” often overlooks the broader implications of space research. Lars Fischer addressed this in a blog post from November 17, 2014, where he argued against prioritizing space exploration over pressing issues like hunger and poverty. His points resonate strongly and require no further elaboration.
To put the costs of a space mission like New Horizons—approximately $700 million—into perspective, consider the defense budgets of various nations. For instance, in 2013, the figures were as follows:
- USA – $640 billion
- People's Republic of China – $188 billion
- Russia – $87.8 billion
- Saudi Arabia – $67 billion
- France – $61.2 billion
- United Kingdom – $57.9 billion
- Germany – $48.8 billion
- Japan – $48.6 billion
With their 2013 defense budget, the United States could fund approximately 914 missions like New Horizons, while Germany could support around 69.
What do we gain from such space missions? One important aspect is the employment of countless talented individuals over many years, particularly within NASA. These professionals build careers that contribute significantly to humanity's knowledge and advancement. The question of the value of exploring our cosmic neighborhood is one that should not require serious debate in 2015.
Clear Skies, Stefan Oldenburg
My fascination with astronomical topics began in childhood, and I am thrilled to witness this golden age of astronomy. Exciting discoveries are emerging rapidly, but for me, the true allure of this science lies in exploring our cosmic surroundings firsthand. 'Clear Skies' is a common greeting among amateur astronomers, reflecting a wish for favorable observation conditions. This blog, established in November 2007, carries that name as an homage to our shared passion.
