[Richard Kimball]

I'd like to think so, but I really don't. The nearest star is Alpha Centuri, which is 4.2 light years away. It would take numerous generations just to go there and return.

I don't think there's the kind of generational interest to support the endeavors necessary for advanced space travel. We currently have the technology that we could set up a permanent base on the moon, but the question remains, why? EVERYTHING would have to be transported from earth for survival, and it would be a bleak existence. It makes as much sense to set up colonies under the ocean.

[muir_redwoods]

Actually as we approach light speed, which could be done if we could accelerate at 1G for a few months or perhaps a year, the relativistic time on board would subjectively shorten the flight time. It would still be vey lengthy but perhaps, with time, technology would find a way to suspend the life systems of those on board.

Don't discount human ingenuity; consider what we are both doing right now; posting comments instantaneously on a website from anywhere on earth would have been unimaginable to my grandfathers.

[cripplecreek]

I don't think there's the kind of generational interest to support the endeavors necessary for advanced space travel.

That's why I want to see more research on much faster space ships.