[Esel Mann]

First, the purpose of the manned portion of the space program is to create the ability for human occupation beyond our planet over an indefinite period of time. Wow, could I possibly be an more specifically unspecific? It's not even beer:30 yet.

Why would we wanna do that ? I can see the following plausible reasons:

- Well, its in our social fabric. Manifest destiny and all that stuff. #$%!~ expands to fill the space given it...

- Scientific. When we loose the desire to learn more, we become stagnant. At this time, much of science still requires a human presence where the science is being conducted. Maybe in the future it won't be necessary but today it is.

- Economic. Our style of capitalism whether you like it or not requires constant growth (ala Ponzi-schemish or reverse pyramid scheme). We have acheived globility. Thus the days of growth are numbered unless we can expand our presence and thereby expand markets. Well thats what space if for!

- Offensive/defensive capability. The ability to project force from space closes the hole in force projection umbrella. Perhaps in the future this won't require a manned presence but at this time it does.

- Planet Protection. Our planet has evidence of roids pummling us. A means to protect the planet from such, which is crucial to our long term survival would be much more effective if there was a manned presence in space.

Regards,
Carlton