Since the 20th century, rockets and other technological innovations have allowed scientists to send machines, animals and people above Earth’s protective atmosphere. While space exploration has many primary, secondary and tertiary economic benefits, it is also a source of national pride and prestige for nations and individuals who participate in its pursuit.
Scientists and engineers have explored the Moon and other planets with spacecraft, including the Mars Exploration Rovers Curiosity and Opportunity. The development of private companies for spaceflight and the creation of commercial space stations have dramatically reduced the cost and time required to perform these activities.
The main goal of most space exploration is science done in and from space. It has grown from modest beginnings to include massive research programs such as the International Space Station and major space-based observatories like the Hubble Space Telescope. Observing stars, their solar systems and distant worlds from orbit is essential to understanding the universe around us.
A major focus of current space science efforts is studying the Sun and its effects on Earth. Being above Earth’s atmosphere enables scientists to measure solar wind, infrared and ultraviolet radiation that are otherwise blocked by the planet’s atmosphere. The recent Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft have surpassed the planet’s outermost orbit and are currently coasting through interstellar space.
The long-term goal is to establish permanent space colonies on the Moon, near-Earth asteroids and other worlds, as well as in space stations in orbit around Earth. These will include laboratories for unique or risky experiments, factories, observatories and mining facilities. Ultimately, they will help researchers gain valuable insight into how humans may respond to extended forays away from the safety of the Earth.