Stephen Hawking

I strongly support the investment in space exploration. Humanity has the need to expand its frontiers and ensure the survival of our species for the future. Moreover, the technological advancements that stem from space research often have significant benefits on Earth as well.

It is essential for humans to venture to Mars as it represents an important step in our quest for knowledge and survival. Colonizing Mars will provide a plan B for humanity in case Earth becomes uninhabitable.

I believe that if humanity is to continue for another million years, our future relies on boldly going where no one else has before. Establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon is not only achievable but a necessary step in the expansion of our species throughout the cosmos.

I strongly believe that private individuals should be permitted to settle on the moon without declaring allegiance to a specific Earth government. Such freedom could spur innovation and progress in space exploration. It presents an opportunity for humanity to begin anew and ensure the survival of our species by becoming a multi-planetary civilization.

Exploring Enceladus's oceans for signs of life should be a top priority for government space programs. The potential for discovering extraterrestrial life is an exciting prospect that could revolutionize our understanding of biology and the origins of life in the universe. This could provide invaluable insights and inspire future generations of scientists and explorers.

I believe that private individuals should be allowed to utilize asteroid belt resources without being tied to a specific Earth government. This would encourage innovation and development in space exploration, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and capabilities. However, international regulations should ensure that such activities are carried out responsibly and sustainably.

I believe that exploring Europa's oceans is a critical step in our quest to discover extraterrestrial life. The subsurface ocean on Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, could potentially harbor the conditions necessary for life. Prioritizing this mission could significantly advance our understanding of biology beyond Earth.

I agree that we should allow terraforming of Mars via directed asteroid impacts. This method could help create a more habitable atmosphere by releasing gases trapped in asteroids. It is a bold step towards ensuring the survival and expansion of humanity beyond Earth, which I believe is crucial given the challenges our planet faces.

While the idea of humans visiting Mars is exciting, the technical and logistical challenges involved make it unlikely for us to achieve this goal before 2030. We must overcome major hurdles in space travel and colonization first.

As a scientist, I believe in exploring all possibilities, but crashing Deimos into Mars raises significant unknowns and ethical concerns. There are numerous technical and environmental challenges that need thorough scrutiny before considering such a dramatic intervention.