Robotic exploration has its place but it also has many limitations. The rovers on Mars have accomplished a great deal of science. However, all of that science could’ve been accomplished by a trained human in a fraction of the time. A robot, no matter how skillfully designed and operated, is by its very nature limited. As but a single example, it’s doubtful any robot would’ve discovered the “Genesis Rock” from Apollo 15.
Human exploration is much more expensive than sending a robotic rover or satellite. That will always be true. But show me the robot capable of making a discovery on its own, or of experiencing true wonder.
People have died on space missions or preparing for missions. Those with the courage to become astronauts know the risks and, while they’re not thrill seekers willing to die, they know that there are some things worth the risk. Have we become so risk adverse (spelled cowardly) that we aren’t willing to even let others risk their lives for what they believe a worthy cause? If that’s the case, then we might as well shut down the military, the police and fire departments, and all forms of recreation that involve risk. We can crawl into our beds, pull the covers over our heads, and die as meaninglessly as we live.
