Space travel has always been on the minds of man. Since ancient times it has been speculated that going to space would solve many of mankind’s problems. By creating an independent space station or Colonies to live and study in would relieve the pressure on Earth caused by pollution, lack of oxygen, and lack of resources. Unfortunately as Space tourism interest grows so also do the questions surrounding the validity of these Space claims. Is this really the solution to mankind’s Space woes?
As Space tourism grows so also do the environmental concerns surrounding it. As more people start to explore the possibility of going into space we will undoubtedly find more environmental impacts. But what can we do to stop these environmental impacts from turning into a Space problem?
The first step is for us as a whole as a society to stop looking to outer space for solutions. We must come to a place where Space tourism is no longer something we discuss, but a way of life. We must develop an infrastructure to support this industry. We need to establish guidelines and rules to protect our astronauts from radiation, micronavigation, and harmful G-powers from debris. We also need to develop ways of maintaining the status quo of the space industry while developing new technologies and applications.
There are some who believe that the growing environmental concerns about Space are simply a media stunt to sell more space souvenirs. While many environmentalists probably have something to say about this that is not true for all. It appears that as the Space Industry develops and grows so also do the environmental concerns. Perhaps the real question then becomes not if Space Tourism will affect us all as much as the concern should, but when will the first Space Restaurant be established?
The truth is that as long as humans have been exploring space there will always be some form of environmental impact. From the blasting of the Grand Canyon by the Earth, to the Comet Atmosphere and Dust Clouds. There has been a growing concern about Space Visitor Damage and contamination with space dust. This is a real problem and one that we will have to address as long as we are sending men or women to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. In fact, there are some who feel that this is an issue we should be concerned about now and look forward to in the future.
Many people may see these concerns and opinions as being nothing more than conspiracy theories. They point out that there are no real studies that back up any of the claims. Of course there is always the argument that everything conspiracy theory is just that, a theory. After all, if something is suspected it must be proven right? Well, you can prove anything if enough evidence is presented to make that case.
However, the growing concern over the growing space industry and the effect it is having on the environment and on our space programs is one thing. That growing concern is leading to a growing concern over the misuse of space, its resources, and its human habitats. Some people feel that human beings in these environments need to be closely monitored. Some feel that they should be kept out of these types of environments completely and not allowed to travel too quickly into them. Indeed, some of these issues are already being addressed and investigated.
As long as mankind is going to be involved with space, there will be some type of environmental impact. Those developers that are worried about developing these types of habitats and those that are worried about contaminating the space station itself, well, we’ll just have to wait and see. At the very least, this is something to consider when watching the Space Shuttle program and how it has affected the overall concern for space. Remember, there is always a balance between man’s desire to explore and utilize space and the protection of the environment.
Provided by Antonio Westley
Disclaimer: This article is meant to be seen as an overview of this subject and not a reflection of viewpoints or opinions as nothing is definitive. So, make sure to do your research and feel free to use this information at your own discretion.
