LIFT-OFF

In July 1969 Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon. Hailed as a great success, it confirmed technological man, and his ability to break free of the confines of the planet. It was a moment to be proud in our abilities as an ingenious species. Or was it?

On the technological side, it certainly was. But what about motive? Clearly, as far as the technicians and astronauts were concerned, there was a pure motive. To advance, to experience, to explore. But they were the pawns of the decision to go.

That decision was political. And it had nothing to do with exploration. Rather, the USSR was beating America in the space race, and American politicians could not allow that. Hence, billions of dollars and a fine achievement had the grubbiest of motives.

This is a vital point to note concerning any future exploration of space. The need for such exploration is there. If we see something we can explore and learn about, we are compelled to do so. But we haven’t even begun the journey yet.

We haven’t begun because the politicians will not let it begin. They will allow space exploration as a side line, or to fulfill a political cause. But in terms of our destiny in space, we have not yet begun. It is time we did. For we are not fully human without a noble cause.

 It is time for lift-off.

© Anthony North, Jan 2007