Rand Simberg’s response to Robert Zubrin, in defense of propellant depots, is: “To say that we will open up space without them is like saying that we should have had no gas stations on the interstate highway system, and should instead have had everyone drive across the country in a gasoline tanker truck, or with expendable drop tanks.”
Last I checked, Lewis & Clarke didn’t have the benefit of gas stations. Analogous statements could be made about Magellen, Columbus, et. al. Jefferson didn’t build a highway system – that was Eisenhower’s job. When it comes to space, we’re in the age of exploration.
I’m all for commercial interests vying for satellite launch and space tourist business. But NASA should be exploring. Robots aside (and they do have a role), that means sending men and women BOE. Mars seems like the reasonable next step.
