Source: Space Politics
quote: I'm sorry but the preconceived attitude of it can't be done should not enter the equation.
quote: If the moon is such a bad idea, then why is an asteroid, or Mars any better?
quote: We've been launching people into space for a while now.
quote: Private companies will soon be offering rides
quote: companies are looking at privatizing the moon and asteroids for mining purposes
quote: Yeah it will be expensive, but the benefits outweigh the risks.
quote: We throw trillions away on lots of other stuff.
quote: Id rather they throw it at the moon.
quote: The fact that private companies are doing it at all is pretty awesome.
quote: As far as the lunar/asteroid mining goes, you may think its a Ponzi, but it has enough weight that pop-sci has addressed it in a few articles.
quote: You seem to be focused on just the launch.
quote: What about SpaceX? They've broken into the monopoly the ULA had on USAF contracts because they are cheaper.
quote: They are attemping to address the reusability aspect.
quote: I'd argue that private industry and competition will drive down prices, and lead to the innovation you desire because they have to answer to their investors.
quote: The government has no inkling of give a fuq about the amount of money they throw at the monopolies they are in bed with.