How might we approach a major lunar programme?

Abstract

This is indeed the question that a lot of people in the street, journalists, scientists, politicians are asking, since they feel that a major lunar programme might be another uncertain adventure, absorbing enormous resources. They may also feel that the time is inappropriate to go to the Moon after the Apollo missions. There is no doubt that “selling” the Moon to our ministers or governments today is a very ambitious goal. The return to the Moon can no longer be seen as the result of a space race between the super space powers. It must have its own intrinsic justification. Is there any? There are several reasons to go to the Moon. They can be grouped into three categories: scientific, economic and philosophical.