Space Colonization

The overwhelming impact the human race has had on planet earth has resulted in many issues throughout the years. Space colonization is defined as hypothetical permanent habitation and exploitation of natural resources from outside planet Earth. This proposed idea exposes the quintessential conflict of humanity: survival. Space colonization highlights the urgency to protect humanity from extinction and should be further researched and eventually taken into action to allow options in case of disaster.

The advancement of technology and the increase in humans has been detrimental for planet earth. The constant need for instant gratification within the human race has resulted in an increase in factories, electricity and pollution. Many tasks are done technologically due to its efficiency. Furthermore, most people own a car, which takes up gas and overall increases pollution. Pollution is an ongoing issue that worsens as time goes on, and may eventually be the reason we need to leave planet Earth.

In addition to the advancement of technology, humanity could undergo many disasters, both natural and man-made. There have been predictions about major natural disasters that could eliminate human existence, such as tsunamis or earth quakes. If a disaster occurs, humanity needs a plan to allow for the continuance of life. Stephen Hawking, renowned physicist, offered the idea of space colonization. He predicts that within the next two hundred years humanity will be extinct if there is not colonization created on another planet.

One concern many have associated with the idea of space colonization is the availability of resources. According to different estimates, it is known that the Solar System has enough material and energy to support numbers higher than the earth population. Moreover, with proper protection and advanced technology, transferring humans to space may be do-able. In a study, asteroids were proposed to be utilized as mining and fuel stations instead of traveling back to earth for resources. This would not only save money, but promote efficiency.

Similarly, another reason space colonization may be necessary is the fear of overpopulation. With the increase of technology and a man-made world civilization, humanity is rapidly growing and eventually there may not be enough space or supplies. Instead of implementing a strict system to limit growth of existence, space colonization could open up a future for many individuals and the possibilities could be endless. Many other planets contain resources needed for humanity, some even have more than earth. This would allow space for humanity to exist and allow resources to become less scarce, and more available. Although this solution seems to be eventually accessible, many science fiction authors such as Arthur C. Clarke disagree, claiming it is not a realistic solution to overpopulation.

Ultimately, space colonization is a controversial subject, and there are strong arguments for both sides. Due to the inevitable expiration date of both planet earth and humanity, it is necessary to seek out options to prolong existence. Space colonization may be a possible idea due to the possibilities of asteroid mining and the availability of resources on other planets.