[tet68]

Now, who will get there first? Us or the Chinese?

[KevinDavis]

Better be US.

[SBeck]

Personally, I'd be more concerned about the Chinese getting at the Moon's resources. The promise of Helium 3 as an almost inexhaustable form of cheap energy may be driving the Chinese space program. Read Arthur C. Clarke's 2061: Odyssey Three for his correct perspective of the coming Chinese advances in space exploration.

[Clara Lou]

It's a 3-year trip to Mars. Who can travel for three years in a sardine can? How many can travel comfortably in a sardine can? What if one gets cold feet and becomes psychotic? There's no way to abort the mission. Once an astronaut is on the way, it's Mars or bust. There are serious problems with travel to Mars.