Get Your Own Space

It's official!  The United States owns all of space.  The Supreme Ruler of the Universe, George Bush, has declared with the signing of the National Space Policy that the United States government can deny access to space if any country is thought to be a threat to us.  So, you know, if the federal government boys (and some girls) don't like a particular country then they aren't allowed to go into space.  Or even send up any satellites because it is all an issue of national security and the United States doesn't want any other country controlling outer space.  You would think the other countries would already know this.  I mean, who invented Star Trek, for crying out loud?

This could put a damper on the plans of Space Adventures, a new company promoting space tours for the ultra rich.  They have launched a couple of of folks with $25 million in pocket change for a ride to the international space station but they are partnering with the Russians.  The recent tourist, Charles Simonyi, a self described "nerd in space" has as his number one goal the advancement of civilian spaceflight.  That means getting more people to take trips into space.

Of course this is a goal that has me torn on whether to support it or not.  On the one hand sending one, two or even three space tourists at a time aboard huge rockets is contributing to global climate instability by dumping enormous amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, especially at the higher altitudes where it can do the most damage.  On the other hand this could stimulate the development of colonies on the moon and Mars where we can send all of these people who have no interest in staying on Earth and taking care of her. 

That is such a nice thought to have on this cold fall evening, sitting under the stars and imagining all of the technophiles and scientists happily living on the moon, Mars and other planets.  But no, I feel too guilty.  I won't really wish that nightmare on any other planet or even the moon.  Western civilization created this mess and I guess we will just have to deal with it.

Or die trying.