0It's obvious to me you have simply read someone else's BS account that states space exploration is a waste. The statement is so far from the truth it disgusts me. Let me see if I can briefly explain why.
Your ability to post the question in the first place, and perhaps read my answer on your smart phone in your part of our world, results from transmission satellites placed round the globe by technology developed through our space program. First developed in the sixties, our space program (along with Russia, at that time the ONLY 2 countries even attempting such things) was in its infancy.
When someone you know grabs a portable drill, and sticks in a freshly charged battery, enabling them to work on a home project or repair a fence after a big storm, encourage them to look toward the sky, hands extended upward in reverence and yell, "Thank you NASA," for this useful technology developed during the Apollo program.
If you have a niece or a nephew, fortunate enough to have invisible braces to help straighten their teeth, but not mar their beautiful, cherubic smile, you should shake your head in awe and prayerfully say, "Thank you NASA!"
If your grandma Martha, has had a hip replacement and that hip joint is covered with a light coating of metallic gold, allowing her to walk easier than ever before, you should lift your hands to the heavens and yell, "Thank you NASA!" Then tell grandma you love her!
During the Apollo program, the US spent about 1.75 cents per tax dollar on space. From about 1983 until 2013, the value hovered around 3/4 cents per tax dollar. Today, that value is less than 1/2 cent per tax dollar. Depending on your source, the payback cited to humans on earth (not just Americans) was 7 to 1! Some argue 20 to 1! Who today would not take a 7 to 1 return on investment? Very few I'm guessing. Our problem is that we want instant gratification from any investment we make. We are not willing (Americans anyway) to wait for the payback over time. If your DVR breaks, what do you do? Most go purchase a new one, if it is within their means.
Do you need even more information for me to convince you to change your tune and agree that space exploration is an investment, and NOT a waste of taxpayer dollars? Just go to and start reading. You'll be surprised at what you might find. And when you've done a little more research, cast your eyes to the skies, and following my advice to keep lookin' up, take a few seconds to yell, "Thank you NASA!" You'll be glad you did!
