Should the Moon Be Developed?
Decades after the last astronauts explored the moon, various governments and companies are beginning to show interest in the moon's development. There are many different ideas about how the moon should be developed, or whether it should be developed at all. Some think that the moon should be preserved for all mankind, and that its development should be limited to scientific research. Others favor development of the moon by private firms.
Some see the development of the moon beginning with tourism. According to this idea, groups of tourists would pay to be shuttled to a resort on the moon. The moon is also a potential source of minerals such as aluminum and titanium and energy resources such as helium-3, which could fuel fusion reactors. Once enough buildings and equipment are in place on the moon, the mining of such resources could begin and a larger-scale colony could be built.
Develop the Moon
Developing the moon will have many advantages. One is to gain scientific knowledge, especially about the early history of the solar system. The moon will be the ultimate tourist destination. Although the cost would be high, many people would be willing to pay for the unique chance to experience the moon's low gravity and airless environment.
The moon is rich in iron, aluminum, calcium, and helium-3. Helium-3 may one day serve as a source of fuel for nuclear fusion. Resources from the moon could potentially be used in a lunar base, on Earth, or for future colonization of space.
The moon is a logical stepping stone for future missions to Mars. A lunar base would provide a valuable testing ground for technology that could eventually be useful on Mars. Such technology will also have applications on Earth, where it will improve people's lives and create new jobs.
Do Not Develop the Moon
The development of the moon would be a waste of time and money. Scarce government funds would be better spent on projects with a more immediate benefit, such as feeding the hungry, improving schools, and building better housing. In the short run, government funding for space should be focused on space probes and telescopes. These technologies allow us to learn more about the solar system and the universe beyond at a relatively low cost. In the long run, a mission sending a crew to Mars would be of much greater interest and scientific value.
The proposed development of the moon would be too expensive and risky to receive private funding. Few tourists are likely to be able to pay the high costs of visiting a resort on the moon. The techniques for mining mineral and energy resources on the moon are uncertain, and any such resources would probably be very costly to produce.
Defining an Issue In your own words, explain the major issues involved in the debate about the future development of the moon.
Analyzing the Viewpoints What are the key arguments expressed by the proponents and critics of developing the moon? What are the benefits? What are the risks?
Forming Your Opinion Should the moon be developed? If so, explain how. If not, explain why not.
Persuasive Writing Suppose you have been appointed chair of a presidential commission on the moon's future. Prepare a letter to the President explaining the commission's recommendations.