The debate over Mars colonization has gained new life, with billionaire Elon Musk and astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson going at each otheron the issue. During an appearance on talk show host Bill Maher’s HBOprogram, Tyson expressed skepticism over the feasibility of theambitious proposals to create a civilization on Mars by Musk.
In his chat with Maher, Tyson showed much skepticism toward Musk’s vision, stating that this was financially not feasible and would not attract investors. He further reiterated that the history of space exploration has been built on geopolitical forces, not purely on exploratory motives.
Wow, they really don’t get it.
Mars is critical to the long-term survival of consciousness.
Also, I’m not going to ask any venture capitalists for money. I realize that it makes no sense as an investment. That’s why I’m gathering resources. https://t.co/XVCpHKlusD
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 23, 2024
Referring to Musk‘s plans, Tyson actually mocked the potential pitch “What is the return on investment? Nothing. That’s a five-minute meeting. And it doesn‘t happen,” Tyson said. He further questioned the practicality of life on Mars, describing its extreme conditions: temperatures plummeting to -200°F, lack of breathable air, and journey taking six months to complete.
Elon Musk swiftly responded to Tyson‘s comments on X – formerly Twitter. He defended his ambitions regarding Mars by explaining that the venture was not meant to attract a traditional source of venture capital.“Mars is critical to the long-term survival of consciousness,” Musk explained. He also added that he personally collects the funds for the project.
Referring to the challenges, he said:
“Even if the effort fails, the innovations developed for Mars colonization will advance alien-level technology and far surpass competitors focused solely on Earth orbit.”
Elon Musk‘s SpaceX sees the potential to utilize Starship spacecraft,which can be reused, to create a permanent colony on Mars. The company plans for its first uncrewed Mars mission in two years, a majorstep toward Musk’s final goal.
As much as Neil deGrasse Tyson is warning humanity to focus on the pressing issues the Earth has, Musk remains firm in his conviction that Mars is where human consciousness will find a new home, and the future of space exploration debate far from being resolved.
