The only way to create a sustainable program of exploring the moon and Mars with humans, beyond the initial flush of achievement, is by fully integrating science into our planning. We won’t be able to answer the important science questions without human missions, and we can’t fly the human missions without science support from the robotic program. Because they need to work together, we should have a single space exploration program that integrates both the human and robotic components.

To continue reading this article:

Register now to read
3 free articles this month.

You’ll also receive our weekly Editor’s Choice, SpaceNews This Week and Opinions newsletters. Opt-out at any time.

Sign in to an existing account

Get unlimited access to SpaceNews.com, the SpaceNews app and our digital monthly magazine for less than $5 per week.

$280

On a campus or library network? Check for access.

Cancel anytime. Sales tax may apply. No refunds. Terms and conditions apply.

See all subscription options

Bruce Jakosky is an Emeritus Professor at the University of Colorado Boulder and University of Washington, has almost 50 years’ experience as a Mars researcher, and was the Principal Investigator of the MAVEN spacecraft mission that has been orbiting...

G. Scott Hubbard has held key roles at NASA, including director of Ames Research Center, first Mars Program director, founder of NASA's Astrobiology Institute, and the agency’s sole member of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Hubbard, now retired,...