[RightWhale]

We should concentrate on the moon. Work out techniques and train ourselves. Then set up a base on a moon of Mars. Then, when we are good and ready descend to surface. Do another one-off Apollo type program and neither NASA nor Congress will hear the end of it.

[Prime Choice]

We should concentrate on the moon. Work out techniques and train ourselves.

This makes sense. If a staging area could be built on the moon, it could serve as something of a waystation. Might even be a good way to start a series of International Space Station-style waystations along the way so that the trip to Mars wouldn't be as arduous as current plans suggest.