[DannyTN]

"Real spinoff technology from space development is hard to pin down and define most of the time, but this one is pretty straightforward. "

It is hard to predict the spinoffs and the values created, but the space program has certainly generated tremendous value and knowledge in the past.

Perhaps even if we didn't fully fund the exploration now but at least set that as a goal. The planning process might lead us to additional technology development that we wouldn't have otherwise.

[Frank_Discussion]

The problem with "planning" (espescially re: Mars) is that the fiefdoms will just keep sucking funding for more plans. Somebody needs to say "Go forth and build a Mars System. Now!"

O'Keefe is headed a least one step in the right direction with his next-gen propulsion initiative. He needs to have a vehicle developing to put the engine into, and on a parallel track.