When we began the blog, and even at times before when the “articles” were not officially titled blog entries, I used to share and discuss a little more space news. I did this because I find space exploration exciting and interesting (and a blogger is supposed to write about things that interest them – in general) and also because some people who read the articles told me they enjoyed reading about space. Lately, we don’t blog too much about space unless there is a big headline like the meteor over Russia last month. We don’t get much feedback about space-themed entries plus there are dedicated space websites where people can get more detailed and frequent information.
Still, I wonder if the lack of interest has a strong generational component. I grew up near the end of the classic “space age”, so I still got the vibe from older generations. Today’s youth have never seen anything more exciting than astronauts hanging out in the ISS. Even potential trips to Mars or bases on the Moon don’t seem to drum up much enthusiasm. It is all the older generations still pushing more human space exploration (whether privately or through NASA).
Would the discovery of life generate a buzz? It would for me, but maybe not for many other people. This recent article asked the same question. Would the discovery of life on Mars make headlines? Probably not as much as one would think. Part of the reason is generational, but maybe part of the reason can be tied to the fact that NASA has sent several crafts/rovers to the red planet and each time (even back to the Mariner and Viking programs) they have trumpeted “signs” and “evidence” that Mars might have supported life at some time in the past.
Viking craft on Mars
It has been said so many times that perhaps is just doesn’t register on anyone’s radar screens anymore. Plus, if there were signs of past life on Mars, even as far back as the 1970s, then why have we sent so many crafts to the red planet WITHOUT the capability of directly sensing biological material – remnants of that past life? Maybe there is some frustration as well.
I know that I am frustrated about the slow pace of private space development and tourism, but I still have hope. I am grateful that some people and companies with deep pockets are thinking long term about human space travel. I will continue to update the blog with any big developments.
Have a good Thursday! Meteorologist Justin Loew
