Paul D. Spudis (1952–2018)

Once considered a key stepping-stone to America’s continued exploration of the solar system, the moon is Earth’s closest neighbor in space. Yet, now it seems that many are considering bypassing the moon and sending astronauts to Mars.

Advocating both a return to the moon and the use of its resources to establish and supply a cislunar space transportation system, “The Value of the Moon” recounts the reasons ignoring the moon and heading straight for Mars might not be the best choice for the continuation of the program of American space exploration. This logical argument goes on to suggest that traveling to Mars or exploring deep space would benefit if the moon were a springboard for those journeys.

Doctor Spudis speaks to why America went to the moon with the Apollo program, what scientists learned from those missions, and how the moon is critical to further exploration. He makes a case for harvesting lunar material and using its energy resources, steps that are both feasible and affordable. In addition, a lunar base would seem to be a logical jumping-off point for further space exploration. And, there’s always the possibility of man living on the moon one day.

Readers interested in space exploration, the moon, astronomy, and technology will find much to appreciate in this thoughtful and compelling narrative.

Highly recommended.… (más)

As a member of the baby boomer generation, I grew up believing that space was the final frontier and that by the end of my lifetime we would routinely travel to the moon and possibly other planets. Perhaps I was too optimistic, or I read too much science fiction.

A permanent base on the moon didn’t happen but it should have. Lunar scientist Paul Spudis explores the reasons why the United States should consider a return to the moon: it is close, it is interesting, and it is useful.

The book begins with a little background history on man’s fascination with the moon and leads into a discussion of the Apollo program. Spudis explains that our original reason for going to the moon was not space exploration, establishing a permanent base, or even research. Instead, it was a race to beat the Russians, to be the first country to plant our flag. Once we won the race, funding dried up despite the excellent research and information gathered during subsequent Apollo missions.

The author goes on to look at the years following Apollo: Skylab, the Shuttles, the Space Station, unmanned space probes, and landing on Mars. He is skeptical that a mission to Mars is feasible right now and doesn’t think that is where we should be headed at this time.

Instead, he makes a convincing argument on why we should return to the moon; why we need to return, because if not us, then who? It’s only a matter of time before someone else will. And the moon can be used as a base for future missions to Mars. He goes on to explain how we should go about getting to the moon and how to use the resources available there.

While parts of the book can seem technical, it is written in a clear and understandable manner, and anyone with an interest in the space program should be able to enjoy the material.

And I’m still hoping for that moon base in my lifetime.… (más)