Getting to Mars is expensive. Getting peeps to Mars is way beyond expensive. Expensive in things we will worry about.

In theory we could solve all the problems (eventually), and find the money. In our current world view.

But when the bogeyman that is global warming affects the USA in their pockets, methinks the political climate will change dramatically. And a death or two in striving for an airless planet will nail it for a long, long time.

They fight wars over water now. When food is difficult to grow here on earth, the fight will get worse. Meanwhile the world will be too pre-occupied with defence to address the causes of the global warming/fighting. Going to Mars will be a luxury too far by then IMHO. Don't you think we should fix this planet before fucking up another?

Events in 2016 are only a taster. I make no apologies for playing the TRUMP card. U ain't seen nuffink yet - PAL !