[Destro]

In time. Big science stuff is one of the few things I think govt should and can do well. There is no loaw stopping private missions to mars so until there are let the govt fill in the void.

[PokeyJoe]

Another reason why the US needs to get out of the UN.

Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, Including the Moon and other Celestial Bodies

Article II Outer space, including the moon and other celestial bodies, is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means.

In other words, the UN Treaty expressly forbids any claim of national appropriation. So, my question is - why can't I appropriate my piece of Mars for myself?