Baby Steps Into Space

Freedom isn't just about the government honoring the rights that God has given you. It is also about having the economic means to spend the energy you get in a day on making your dreams and ambitions come true, instead of using up said energy for day-to-day, skin-of-the-teeth survival.

People in doubt about the usefulness of space travel argue that we should solve our problems on Earth before we think about going to space. I believe that responsible, efficient use of extra-terrestrial natural resources has the potential to release many from the bondage of poverty. In addition, the surface areas of land on the Moon and Mars that could be used for housing, cities, and other accoutrements of colonization exceed that of Earth.

Astronauts always speak of the intensely transcendental experience from looking out the shuttle window at our home planet from orbit, from being able to see the entire Earth at once with their own two eyes. They often refer to it as personally transformational and enlightening, increasing their feelings of love and empathy for their species.

I think the world would change for the better if the opportunity for this experience was accessible to the everyday person. I applaud Sir Richard Branson for taking this hope of mine for humans a step closer.

Virgin Galactic Unveils Launch Plane for Upcoming Spacecraft by Wired.com