[Moneyguy1]

I always marvel at the "We should spend that money here on earth". Gee, I didn't realize they stuffed the probes with cash... Who do these folks think gets this money? These companies employ scientists, maintenance people, support staff, and all these people shop at the local Piggly Wiggly (or equivalent), pay taxes, spending this "wasted" money and helping the stores maintain staff, which in turn, helps suppliers keep their employees paid and happy...The good old multiplier effect at work. I would rather see people work and earn their way (those that are able) than give out freebies to those who can work but do not wish to. Try explaining this to your friends who think that all scientific exploration is wicked and wasteful.....especially those with pacemakers and GPS devices, not to mention satellite TV and cellphones....