I just watched the show "The Universe" last night, and the episode was all about man going to Mars. They also briefly discussed the ethical concerns about terraforming Mars. It's an interesting point, but I think it's moot because IF we are able to colonize and terraform Mars then it WILL happen. Trying to stop human expansion into new livable territory is like trying to hold back the tide with a broom.

The more important thing that needs to be addressed is "How do we colonize Mars without turning it into a toxic waste dump like we did to our home planet?"

>> ^kronosposeidon:
...Trying to stop human expansion into new livable territory is like trying to hold back the tide with a broom...

Oh so true, and given the problems we have here we're not leaving any time soon. Still gives me hope that we're thinking about the ethics of such an act, however improbable. I'm a little confused about the indignation of the woman during the Q&A. I guess that's good too. Some one who cares so deeply for a planet. That's 2.5 AU from here. That's dead. Or just about dead. For a couple of billion years now.

I don't have time to watch the video right now, but I fail to see how there are ethical concerns with terraforming Mars. I don't see how it's any different than transforming the desert into a sprawling cityscape.

Comment hidden because you are ignoring dag.(show it anyway)

The question hinges on if there is life there. It's still a possibility.

*engineering

Adding video to channels (Engineering) - requested by oxdottir.