(Engdahl, 1) This is an interesting theory and a valid point, but we obviously have a ways to go before space is ready for a mass exodus from the planet earth.Historically, Americans have always been explorers. Going back to our Native Americans crossing the land bridge of present day Alaska, the Viking exploration of the east coast, Columbus, and fellow explorers looking for a passage to the Far East, Lewis & Clark and their adventures in the west. And we need not stop there, for today we are exploring the ocean floor, the North Pole, and the vastness of Antarctica. It is only natural that our ancestors passed along to us the need to explore the unknown. Today's astronauts are the explorers of the future. They allow us, through them, to feel the excitement, and the wonder of exploring new worlds.It is well argued, that the space program has not been terribly successful in the last few years. Back to back failures of the Mars Climate Orbiter last September, and the Mars Polar Lander last December, left the space agency vulnerable to attacks by critics. But the fact still remains; we are making progress. As one unnamed reader of Newsweek magazine said, "Christopher Columbus had a hard time raising funds from the King of Spain, too. But who, today, would argue that his effort was not worthwhile?" (Newsweek 1)The space program does cost taxpayer money. But the program has many more positive effects on the country to stop federal funding. It provides economic stability, necessary communications, medical advances, insurance and fulfills the need for advancement and exploration....
