5.4 - Research Blog 4: Unmanned Systems Space-Based Applications

Human-Based or Unmanned Space Exploration 

This week in class we were tasked to research an article about spaceflight that discusses whether manned or unmanned space travel would be the best option moving forward and if spaceflight should still be attempted.

The viewpoint I found was Defending Spaceflight, The Echoes of Apollo, by Robert Rovetto. In Spaceflight (Rovetto, 2016) immediately starts the article by defending the need for spaceflight. Rovetto supports that claim with the notion that human beings have the need and the desire to explore, and in this instance explore the worlds beyond.

Rovetto continues by pointing out that manned and unmanned space exploration is not an “either-or” option (Rovetto, 2016). Both modes of space travel can exist together and should exist together because each method provides different results. The method of space travel should not be poised against each other. With that said, Rovetto does eventually lean on the side of manned space exploration.

Supporting manned space exploration, Rovetto provides specific point supporting his manned space exploration stance. Rovetto’s justification n for manned space flight starts off with the simple idea that man is driven by a fundamental goal to positively develop and uplift humanity (Rovetto, 2016). Rovetto continues with listing key points that will benefit for manned space travel. Those points include:
• Educational progress. Improve the quality of teaching, education, and access to education.
 • Scientific knowledge.
• Increasing the quality and care of life.
• Engaging other environments and conditions.
• Increased potential for solving problems in society.
• Cancer research.
• Studying muscular atrophy brought on by muscle disuse.
• Physiological and pathological health. 
• Research on balance disorders, and analyzing DNA.

I found it interesting that Rovetto highlighted the need for a human to go to space in addition to space exploration needing a human to conduct it. Rovetto highlighted the exciting and appealing feeling that human's experience while exploring and how research provides selfless, positive aspects on the human spirit, the mind, and the heart. His position is that the drive for good, being a part of oneself, the joy of discovery and being part of a team are paramount for the human condition (Rovetto, 2016). Rovetto summarizes his stance as “Space exploration stimulates the creation of both tangible and intangible benefits for humanity” (Rovetto, 2016).

Rovetto does point out unmanned or robotic systems are highly capable of carrying out missions and experiences but cannot carry out every mission that manned space missions can. Rovetto emphasizes the need for human interaction in real-time, to act and react to both planned an unplanned events, and adapting to those events as they change. Human interaction provides a level of flexibility and manual dexterity the unmanned systems cannot presently offer (Rovetto, 2016). Having the ability to react in this was on a mission will reduce the time needed to act, which will reduce cost as well.

Finally, Rovetto supports human space exploration by stating that human space exploration will engage the public and new generations. Today’s young generation has not been exposed to space travel like the older generations. Rovetto states that we the public engagement to develop the future of science technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as many human benefits. By viewing other planets as well as our own from deep space, exploration helps to shape human perceptions of our place in the universe.” (Rovetto, 2016).

Opinion 

I agree with Robert Rovetto in that both manned and unmanned space travel should be utilized. The technology being developed today will allow for both modes of exploration. I agree that human interaction, action, and the reaction is vital in certain circumstances. There is no substitute for the actions of a human expert in certain, critical situations. Having said that, if there is a potential for a new type of mission that has not been attempted before, it is my view that the initial attempts should be conducted with unmanned systems. The risk of human life for me is too significant. I also feel that the advances we are making in unmanned systems will eventually eliminate the need for manned space travel. However, I also think that man will never end his fascination with space and space exploration and space travel.

References

Rovetto, R. J. (2016). Defending spaceflight – the echoes of apollo. Space Policy, 38, 68-78. doi:10.1016/j.spacepol.2015.05.007

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