While many expect governments to invest in projects that aim to seek extraterrestrial life, others contend that taxpayers’ money can better be allocated to more pressing issues on earth. Although it is true that more funding can effectively improve concerning problems in society, I am convinced that efforts on searching for life outside of earth hold significant merit, as they help ensure longevity of the human race.
Because the prospect of finding life on other planets seems far-fetched and investments in achieving this do not always guarantee results, it is often argued that the funding should be redirected toward current issues faced by humanity. For instance, the United States Congress approves billions of dollars in budget every year for NASA despite that the country is experiencing extremely high homelessness rates. After countless attempts by NASA to seek extraterrestrial life that cost billions, these investments have remained fruitless. Therefore, opponents of space exploration argue that the money should be instead spent on building more homes and enhancing social security for the country’s homeless citizens.
On the other hand, finding life outside of earth might be the only way humanity can escape its eventual extinction. Scientists say that although the Sun will keep burning for another 5 billion years, life on planet Earth will likely succumb to global warming and environmental changes before that. Hence, it is crucial that governments keep funding space projects in the hope that another habitable planet will be discovered and become humanity’s second home. For example, SpaceX and NASA are currently collaborating to colonize Mars, a planet in the solar system that has been proven to be sustainable for human life under regulated conditions. If consistent funding is approved, it is estimated that there will be a human colony on Mars in 20 years. Consequently, this ensures that human consciousness will survive even after the end of the Earth.
In conclusion, while it is undeniable that there are pressing issues on earth, such as lack of housing and homelessness, that need immediate attention, and redirected funding from space exploration projects could greatly alleviate these problems, it is important that government investments in efforts to seek extraterrestrial life continue, as their success will extend the existence of mankind in the universe.