Critical time

I think the current time is very critical.

The ISS is due for completion in 2006 - even earlier if the Bush
administration gets it's way. This will free up space resources world
wide as the ISS is a multi-nation collaboration. Once this is
finished NASA and the other countries involved in the ISS will be
looking for new direction in space development.

If we are to prevent the monopolisation of space resources by
the 'let's get to Mars as soon as possible' we must start promoting
the Gerard O'Neill vision now. We risk another short term mega-bucks
blow out similar to Apollo with the delay of SPS and space
colonisation, which are surely a more sensible course to take. This
time there is a risk of other countries getting dragged in too.

I think the SSI has recognised this time is important and hence the
release of the third edition of 'The High Frontier' (of which I am a
proud owner).

This has also been recognised by the Mars Direct/Zubrin supporters.
Here in the UK there has been an endless stream of Mars
exploration/possible manned mission documentary programs. I have not
seen one single program about the SSI and/or Gerard O'Neill and his
ideas. If things continue in this vein the all will be lost and space
development will spend more decades in the doldrums.

I have emailed and telephoned various media about this in the UK and
I will see if I get anywhere.

My question is - is this Mars coverage situation and lack of coverage
of other ideas the same in all countries? Is anyone else in this
group trying to change this in the same way I am??

I despair of the unfairness of it all!! Let's get out of this rut of
expensive one off spectaculars and get some real work done in space!!

Mark