Posted on 02/02/2003 1:27:20 PM PST by eclectic
February 1, 2003: The members of the Mars Society join together in grief over the loss of the seven member crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia this morning.
While space travel has become so common that dozens of missions are performed without anything but the most casual mention in the press, such solemn moments remind us that our astronauts are heroes and that such efforts are not without risk.
But humankind has faced and overcome great risks to explore and understand our world. The greatest journeys of discovery now lie in the exploration of our solar system. It is a task in which we can bring together all of mankind to work for the betterment of humanity and our understanding of the universe.
Tragically, Ilan Ramon, Israel's first astronaut, was among the members. May his example of heroism spur the youth of Israel, and the world, to continue to aspire toward the global effort of space exploration.
The crew of the Columbia, as that of Challenger and Apollo 1 before them, gave their lives for the cause of opening the solar system to humanity. In the coming months, that cause will be put to the test, as those who do not honor it seek to use this tradgedy to put it to an end. This must not be allowed to occur.
In memory of Shuttle commander Rick D. Husband, Pilot William C. McCool,Payload Commander Michael P. Anderson, Mission Specialists David M. Brown, Kalpana Chawla and Laurel Clark and Ilan Ramon, let us therefore resolve that the cause for which they gave their last full measure of devotion shall not be allowed to fail.
In Israel, it is sometimes the practice to plant trees in memory of loved ones lost. Let us honor Columbia's crew by resolving today not to rest in our efforts until seven trees in their memory shall be planted on Mars.
From death there shall come life, and no life given shall be given in vain.
The Mars Society offers its condolences to the families and friends of Columbia's crew.
Putting on my asbestos suit...
However there is a reason for driving our cars, its to get someplace (i.e, to work, to the store, to entertainment, home, etc.). Currently NASA is wasting resources in space on idiotic experiments of dubious value. If we are going to be in space and I think we should be, why not do something meaningful like go to Mars. Im tired of conducting experiments on crystal or fungus growth in zero gravity. If we cant get some economic benefits out of space, lets at least get the emotional kick in the pants of real exploration. Let's leave low earth orbit.
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