Restoration 10:10

British scientist Steven Hawking has called for a new era in space travel. He compared it with Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the New World in 1492. ‘It will completely change the future of the human race’ suggested the astrophysicist. It sounds exciting but which part of our future do we want changed? And who gave these guys permission to alter our destiny? Columbus was looking after himself he wanted to gain a new monopoly over a new trade route to Asia. Already Coca Cola Technicians have patented a drink dispensing machine for outer space, which they hope will be used aboard space stations. Believe me they are serious about the possibility of making money from Coke sales should space travel become the norm. If you are tempted to laugh at their aspirations remember the company only managed to sell 400 bottles in its first year. A modest start for a bold idea, now a coke is consumed 1.5 Billion times a day. It will be a long time of course before any profit can be made. Space exploration projects take time. Hawking reckons it will take at least 30 years to build an experimental base on the moon. He also thinks devising a new propulsion system to take us on a planetary hunt outside our solar system would take another 200-500 years. Nevertheless space merchants are making a small profit and providing a benefit to the general public. By 2004 150 people had been buried in space. You too can have a portion of your cremated ashes sent into earth’s orbit, scattered on the lunar surface, or propelled into deep space for as little as $995. And why not? Space is a beautiful place with colourful stars and gracefully shaped planets. You might like to take a trip on Richard Branson’s Virgin’s Galactic space craft. Its first flight is planned for next year. However if you can’t afford the tickets you can still purchase beautiful space themed photography, posters and slides.