Did we fly to the moon too soon?

Did we squander the chance?
'Sleeping Satellite', Tasmin Archer

The terrible tragedy of the Columbia Space Shuttle seems to have made some quarters even more determined to explore space. This year we've seen stunning pictures from Mars, our nearest neighbour in the solar system, while American President George W Bush recently announced plans to fund renewed exploration of the moon as well as further afield - to the tune of $12 billion.

Yet with starvation, disease and poverty on Earth still widespread, how can this expense be justified?

Should space exploration be put on hold while the money is spent on improving the lives we have, or should we begin to prepare for the inevitable day when mankind has used up all of Earth's natural resources?

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Graphic supplied by Community Artist DoctorMO.