Why Space is No Problem for Religion … But Time is

Abstract

ABSTRACT Space exploration might seem like it would pose a threat to human religion, both religion-in-general and various religions-in-particular. However, this paper argues that it is not predominantly discoveries in space that might cause problems for religions, but rather the ongoing passage of time which will do so. By examining six scenarios, various salient concerns will be investigated, but it is really only the danger of overtly, actively hostile extraterrestrial intelligences that pose an existential threat to human religions. Other than that extreme possibility, the time horizon of the scenario – 100 years – is likely to have more impact upon religion.