Review of U. S. Human Space Flight: Introduction
By the U. S. Human Space Flight Review Committee

The nation is facing important decisions on the future of human space flight. Will we leave low-Earth orbit? Will we explore the solar system in search of a path for expansion of civilization into space? If so, how will we ensure that our exploration benefits the nation? Can we explore with the assurance of human safety? Can the nation gather the resources for the mission?

First, space exploration has become a global enterprise. Many nations have goals for space. NASA's budget is roughly equal to the combined annual budgets of space programs in the rest of the world. If the United States is willing to lead a global program of exploration, major accomplishments could follow. Actively working with international partners could strengthen political relationships and enhance the exploration effort.

Second, there is now a growing commercial space industry. If we craft a space program that provides commercial opportunities, costs to the government would potentially be reduced. If the financial impact is still too high, then benefit could still be found even after lowering initial goals.

Can we explore with the assurance of human safety? Human space travel has many benefits. However, it is very dangerous. Human safety can never be absolutely assured. But safety should be treated as first priority.

How will we explore to deliver the greatest benefit to the nation? Planning for a human space flight program should begin with a choice about its goals rather than a choice of possible destinations. Extended space flight may drive innovation, develop commercial industries and important national capabilities, and contribute to further exploration. It should also expand scientific knowledge.

Exploration provides an opportunity to engage and lead international partners to space, to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, and to shape our place in the universe. The Committee concludes that the ultimate goal of human exploration is to chart a path for human expansion into the solar system. This is an ambitious goal, but one worthy of U. S. leadership in concert with a broad range of international partners.

Human Space Travel? How 'Bout We Solve World Hunger First?
By S. Mildenberger

Ever wondered what drives humans to explore space? What is it we seek? I believe we are driven by the desire to be the first to explore, conquer, and own newly discovered resources. However, this desire comes at an enormous price, especially for the pioneering nation. Financial resources are finite, even for the richest nation on earth, the United States. We simply cannot do everything we would like to, much like I can't go buy a new car until I have room in my budget.

The United States has a tremendous amount of company in its hunger to see beyond the already visited boundaries of the final frontier. The resources of NASA are the envy of the rest of the aspiring space-exploring nations. However, there are most certainly unidentified resources here on Earth yet to discover and research (and lay first claim to). We don't know everything about Earth and, I dare say, we cannot know everything yet. Shouldn't we learn all we can here, where research isn't nearly as costly or dangerous?

There must be extraordinary things to discover and understand in space. I get that. But, what is our rush? Wouldn't our energy be better spent trying to solve so many other problems that plague mankind where we live today? There is truly no shortage of these relatively local kinds of problems. Just contemplate with me what those leading scientists and innovative thinkers, who spend all their time contemplating the existence of universes, galaxies, and other worlds currently beyond our reach, could accomplish if they turned their telescopes toward home?

What is the main argument put forth by the Human Space Flight Review Committee?

Ambitions for space travel are felt by the U. S. alone.
Human safety issues have been addressed and fully resolved at this point.
Human space travel should be funded at much higher levels than current spending.
Opportunities presented by human space travel are worth the cost and risk.