Of Space Research and Budgets

                      

                                     Indian Satellite Launch Vehicle (Photo: ISRO)

Why should we spend money to explore space? This is a common question around the world. The usual answer is that there are many benefits right here on Earth that come from space programs. Governments, however, are held accountable for the monies that they spend, and ordinary people want some return on investment. Japan has a reported budget of about $3.5 billion. Reports say a reorganization of Japan’s program is going to be expected to show some practical returns at the expense of pure science. India has a budget of around $1.3 billion. While exploration is still a priority, a more-down to earth focus has been to develop the rocket power to put heavy satellites into orbit, thus freeing Indian from dependence of foreign launch capabilities, and putting her into the launch business. China’s space budget is also said to be about $1.3 billion, matching India’s. And China has a whole host of missions in the works for 2016, 2017 and culminating in a 2020 Mars mission. China’s return on investment seems to be technological advancement and national pride.  And NASA? $17.8 billion dollars looks like a lot…but 2012 saw cuts and more cuts. America’s leading role in space exploration and research may be a thing of the past as a result of budget cutting and lack of vision. Budgets, the final frontier. Log in and let us know your thoughts.