Includes bibliographical references and index.

"What are our motivations for going into space? Where does our long-term space future lie? Why, and how, should we strive to reach, if not for the stars, at least for the Moon and Mars? What are the greatest challenges, and advantages, of space to the human species?" "This book looks first at the progress that has already been made in our attempts to explore and expand beyond the Earth. Current and past space technologies and space stations are described, and the effects of the space environment on the human body are explained. A discussion of the merits of the robotic exploration of space is followed by a look at our exploration of the Moon and Mars, and exploitation of the solar system resources. Final chapters touch on propulsion methods required for leaving our solar system, and ask which of the possibilities for future space travel is most likely to succeed." "Whatever happens in the future, our expansion into space will change us deeply. This thought-provoking book will appeal to all those with an interest in the future of space exploration."--Jacket.

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