The Cardinal Review Vol. 3 No. 2 Growth

A Question of Ethics

By Erin Howard Space travel seems to be both exhilarating and intimidating. The idea of leaving Earth and even seeing Earth from a different vantage point can bring a rush of adrenaline and the feeling of weightlessness.

However, the heaviness of knowing that there are an infinite number of possibilities for failure or success can bring lofty emotions back down to reality. As for scientists, astronauts, and anyone involved in space exploration, it is nearly impossible to cover every scenario that could occur while in space. Because of this, the importance of scenario planning before missions determines the likeliness of success. The purpose of this expository essay is to outline, evaluate, and come to a reasonable conclusion about where ethics stand in the search for life and answers. This essay will first use the example of a past mission to examine proposed protocols. It will then do an in-depth introduction to five primary protocols that should be required for space exploration. Finally, concluding with a statement about the future of ethical space exploration.

Past missions are essential in many ways; they offer lessons and a way to compare and examine future missions expected to serve a similar purpose. Preliminary efforts require crew members to do a comprehensive review of critical elements, sign agreements, and participate in substantial training. The degree of thoroughness of planning for mission preparation is immense and described as mind-boggling. By the end of pre-launch operations and planning, astronauts have been fully immersed in the environment they are to face.

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