A star exploding in a last show of brilliance, a lonely rock floating aimlessly or a new star emerging from the ashes of its cosmic predecessor, are all but a few examples of the hauntingly boundless nature of possibilities in this vague area we lovingly term as “space”. Perhaps it was named so because nothing else is known about it, except for the fact that it exists and occupies, well, space. But why or more particularly should we know about this indefinite trick of our fuzzy existence? Could it hold any benefits for things closer to home?
This debate surrounding space exploration is induced by several factors. Cultural and religious beliefs often associate space with myths or legends, leading to controversy when challenged. Humanity’s immediate problems closer to home could divert attention and resources from space exploration. Additionally, the notoriously high cost of space missions has always possessed risks that may not always justify the investment. Nevertheless, our stubborn fascination with space, rooted in an over-active imagination and reverence, continues to drive exploration efforts despite challenges and obvious setbacks.
Maybe it is this curiosity that nourishes our ever-growing efforts to reach the stars, or maybe it is our quest for development. But what use is any endeavor if it does not provide any distinct benefit? Do any notable inventions find space exploration to be the reason behind their existence? Well, regardless of its perils and strangeness, space exploration has provided us with countless inventions that influence life regularly.
Encompassing a large genre of devices—from vacuums to Memory foam—find their roots in space exploration. Scratch resistant glasses, ear thermometer, athletic shoes, wireless headphones, GPS, artificial limbs, cordless tools or even LED are a few examples of materialistic things created due to the influence of space exploration. However, the “benefits” of space exploration are not just limited to inventions or discoveries, even though they are perhaps the most perceptible. But the fact is, interstellar research provides a global platform for international partnerships, fostering the ideology of “global village” we strive to achieve. It also reminds us of how lonely we are in the universe and how we must depend on ourselves to survive and grow.
With enough physical and theoretical resources that find roots in our extraterrestrial expeditions, it is a safe bargain to argue that these projects might actually be worth the buck. Of course, looking at only the good things makes space travel seem too good to be true. However, we find unhealthy competitions, reminiscent of those between the USSR and the USA during the Cold War, questionable treatment of animals, and the equally perplexing use of government-sponsored funds. These issues not only persist but also arise too frequently to be ignored comfortably. This complex industry seems to have sprung up quite too quickly. So, who is/are responsible for the birth of this great enigma?
Of course, the quandary of space exploration is a subject of a vast nature. But one thing is for certain: Its existence can be credited to the efforts of a few of humankind’s specimens. From Copernicus to Kepler, countless individuals have spent their life decoding the cosmic cipher. Galileo Galiei, Johannes Kepler, William Herschel, Carl Sagan, Stephen Hawking, Isaac Newton, and countless others whose theories and discoveries enabled us to look up at the sky and comprehend what it actually is, are perhaps the most famous. The same is with the crews of the Apollo, Challenger and now the Artemis missions, who were willing to risk their lives to aid in achieving humanity’s dreams of space.
Out of all of this, one thing is for certain. Space exploration or interstellar travel is currently not the most important matter to talk on. We have countless other topics to talk or discuss about. But one thing is certain, space exploration will always be humanity’s passion, aiding us in our journey through the cosmos and fueling our congenital curiosity. The perfect summary of the reason behind our curiosity regarding space can be obtained from a quote by Carl Sagan: “Across the sea of space, the stars are other suns.” Maybe someday, the benefits of space travel won’t be overshadowed by our mortality but be appreciated for what it adds to what we know about our existence.
Sergio Shumsher JB Rana is an A levels student at Trinity International College, Kathmandu.
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