1 Introduction 1.1 Rationale

1.1.1 International Cooperation
1.1.2 Scientific Progress
1.1.3 Technological Progress
1.1.4 Benefit for all Humankind & Economic Growth
1.1.5 Human Evolution and Survival

Why at all do we need to send humans to explore space? This is the first question that comes to mind. Are cheaper robotic missions sufficient to achieve our exploration goals? The reason is that sending robots is simply not the same. After robotic mission number 101, where is the excitement? Where is the adventure? Human exploration of space is inevitable. Some of us seem to be genetically, biologically, and culturally driven to be curious, to explore, and to seek adventure. To satisfy this drive, we need to discover the unknown firsthand.

When one accepts this, the question, "why humans?" is merely reduced to "when and how should humans explore space?". When and how can the resources required for this endeavor be justified? To answer these questions, we need to address all rationales for space exploration. The key reasons are identified in the following statement.

Human space exploration provides a new arena for the innovation of future technologies allowing scientific progress and creating economic growth. Utilization of extra-terrestrial resources combined with international cooperation is essential for the enduring survival and prosperity of humankind.

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