Even in ancient myths, there was a thrill with the concept of humans embarking on fantastical journeys to other planets. However, for me, this adventure starts from the inspiration derived from the first space shuttles sent by NASA. Their space shuttle fleet, consisting of the Columbia, Challenger, Discovery, Atlantis, and Endeavour, performed 135 operations from April 12, 1981, when the program began, and July 21, 2011, when it concluded (Pultarova, 2021). The development of new technologies allows for more accessible flights to outer space.
To realize this vision, Blue Origin is now building reusable spacecraft and technologies that are safe, affordable, and meet all clients’ demands, including those in the civic, commercial, and military sectors. In addition to sending humans into space on the New Shepard, the company is working on reusable liquid rocket engines, space inhabitation programs and orbital launch vehicles. Such efforts will write new chapters in space travel’s annals and bring humankind one step closer to realizing its founding ideal.
Although as fascinating as it is, some aspects of space travel could potentially harm the planet. Rockets launched into space statistically consume fewer fossil fuels than commercial aviation. However, the reason for such a conclusion is an incomparably smaller number of launches overall. The increasing frequency of rocket launches, and the popularity of space tourism have scientists concerned that these activities may harm Earth’s atmosphere and speed up the rate of global warming (Pultarova, 2021).
Although some newly developed spacecraft technologies such as hybrid engines that burn rubber and produce a sooty trail impose a new concern about sustainability. The trail from such engines is released at an inaccessible altitude for the typical measuring means. Consequently, little is known about the future of such technology and its influence on the climate as it may have negative implications. Still, with further developments, the future in which people will harness the abundance of resources available in space will be attainable.
Reference
Pultarova, T. (2021). The rise of space tourism could affect Earth’s climate in unforeseen ways, scientists worry. Space.com. Web.