The noted NASA Apollo astronaut is not happy to bash on science fiction now but has aimed higher or hitting below the belt depending on your point of view. I want to say again that Mr. Aldrin is not only a national hero but a personal one of mine, so you can stop writing that hate mail now. But as of late his comments have had the hallmark of a patient at the home with one too many pain pills in his system. First was the comment that science fiction is ruining real space exploration and now he is suggesting that the first people to go to Mars - should stay there. Yep, one way ticket. Here is a partial quote: "If we are going to put a few people down there and ensure their appropriate safety, would you then go through all that trouble and then bring them back immediately, after a year, a year and a half?" wait there's more: "They need to go there more with the psychology of knowing that you are a pioneering settler and you don't look forward to go back home again after a couple a years," aaaaaaaaah oooooook. Want more? "At age 30, they are given an opportunity. If they accept, then we train them, at age 35, we send them. At age 65, .... they can retire there, or maybe we can bring them back."
You know, if the shoe had been on the other foot. By that I mean, in the initial race to the moon it was suggested that we send a man with enough supplies to keep him going for about 5 years, no return ticket. Just get there first ahead of the Russians. Maybe in 5 we could get him back. I am serious, it was on the table, but the then astronauts said, no F...in way. And quite honestly I know it isn't going to happen this time. Mr. Aldrin knows that as well. So why bother to say something that ludicrous? Just to get in the press? I hardly think so, He has been the epitome of science and industry and received accolades accordingly. So what makes someone put forth something so patently ridiculous? I hate the think it, but it almost seems the lithium is a bit low.
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