text: space exploration--worth the cost? recreational travel? scientific research? aliens? edge of the universe? etc. it is human nature to explore.  since we have explored and exploited (and many will say screwed up) most of the earth, space exploration gives those of us who are curious something to dream about.   many will say that  "we should spend the money on something else".  but considering the vast wastage governments and people engage in (bridges to nowhere, huge, optional wars, etc.).  yes, it is worth the minimal cost.  compare the amount of money people spend on things like video games, makeup, candy and soda, useless automobile trips, and the like - to what is spent on space exploration. the difference is staggering.