Current human space programs are focussed on the Moon. The United States plans a return, China has a burgeoning program, India is developing human spaceflight, and the International Space Station partners remain committed to future developments. But the political future of human spaceflight is uncertain – national goals come and go and there is no current strong geopolitical driver. Human spaceflight to Mars remains a strong notional goal, but in contrast to robotic development there are still strong technological uncertainties to human flight to Mars and beyond. Artificial intelligence, robotics, and increasing miniaturization in space technology may lead to human space exploration to be more virtual, with roles for human crews minimized or even located on Earth. Whatever the future, it is certain to be international, multinational, possibly even with private players and with a strong mix of robotic development.


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    Robots and humans: synergy in planetary exploration

    Landis, Geoffrey A. | Online Contents | 2004


    Robots and humans: synergy in planetary exploration

    Landis, Geoffrey A. | Elsevier | 2004