Hi. I kinda need some help. I need some against points on the topic "That Australia should have a space program" I have already looked at the other posts but I still need more. Oh and any Ideas for a possible split?

Thanks in advance
Minnie

A former rocket scientist myself, and a firm believer in unmanned exporation of the solar system in this century, I now wonder how even the US can justify its own space program. Have the benefits received been justified by the costs? Does each nation need to have its own program? Why not have nations cooperate on programs that make sense?

I agree. The issue is to satisfy nationalistic and business interests, or to form an international consortium. Lot of money is at stake, and as I well know, lots of Australian businesses will be advocating and Australian Space Program so Australia can "Buy Australian".

Greedy pigs seldom want to share their trough, but relish the opportunity to make it an very deep private trough.

Hello Minnie! I'd be happy to help you find additional counterpoints against the topic "That Australia should have a space program." Here are a few points to consider:

1. High costs: Establishing a space program requires significant financial investment. Australia could allocate these funds towards other pressing national issues, such as education, healthcare, or infrastructure. Prioritizing these sectors over a space program could have more immediate and tangible benefits for the public.

2. Lack of expertise: Developing a space program requires a highly skilled workforce and specialized knowledge. Australia may struggle to attract and retain top talent in this field, as countries like the United States, Russia, and China already have well-established space agencies and a rich history of space exploration.

3. Existing partnerships: Australia can benefit from collaborating with other countries' established space programs instead of building its own. This approach allows Australia to share resources, knowledge, and technology while still contributing to space research and exploration on a global scale.

4. Environmental concerns: Space activities involve the launch of rockets and satellites. These operations can generate environmental pollution in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution, and space debris. Prioritizing sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives on Earth might be a more responsible approach in the face of environmental challenges.

5. Opportunity cost: The pursuit of a space program requires significant time and effort. By investing in other areas, such as renewable energy or technological innovation, Australia can address pressing issues while also preparing for the future.

Regarding a possible split, you can consider dividing your arguments based on different aspects. For example:

- Economic and resource allocation concerns: This split could cover points related to cost-effectiveness, expertise, and partnership opportunities.
- Environmental and sustainability concerns: This split could discuss the impact of a space program on the environment and the need to prioritize sustainability initiatives.
- National priorities and opportunity cost: This split could focus on the allocation of resources towards other pressing domestic issues and the potential benefits of investing in alternative sectors.

Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can adapt or modify them based on your research. Good luck with your assignment!