It would make a huge difference. This should be pretty obvious.
NASA somehow thinks that finding life sells, or what?
Of course it sells. When is the last times humans had solid tangible evidence life existed outside earth?
Maybe I exaggerated a little.
However:
It is pretty obvious, that there are no Martians.
And, it have been more-less proven that there is no life on Mars. Forgot the reference, but the analysis of Martian atmosphere have not found any traces of life effects. Life would presumably change the atmosphere, generating oxygen or something like that?
Just scratching my memory, excuse me.
I agree that if they found something, it would be interesting, but they will find NOTHING.
Basically, I am fed up by all these expeditions, SETI’s, etc, etc. Always trying to find life somewhere.
Can we just do basic science, instead trying to find some life somewhere?!
Finding life somewhere seems to me really wasting my tax money.
I am actually science wonk and ardent astronomer, but I have seen so many worthless expeditions and projects, all trying to find life somewhere, I am just fed up with that Sisyphean efforts. Sorry to you, who have not yet reached this stage! You probably will soon.