[Orangedog]

What is missing from the debate is probably the most compelling reason to have a long-term presence on the moon: energy independence. If we are going to make nuclear fusion a real energy source in this century, we will need the helium 3 deposits on the moon. One load of this stuff the size of the shuttle's cargo bay would provide all of the electrical needs of the US for a year. Do we want to be as dependant on the Chinese in a few decades as we are on OPEC, Russia and South America for our energy needs? China IS going to the moon in the next decade. If we don't regain the role we abandoned 30 years ago, we stand to lose a lot more than NASA's budget.

[Cincinatus' Wife]

The mission will establish a foothold on the Moon and command the high ground. The Helium 3 theory can be tested, while we're mining rocket fuel and setting up telescopes.