Science - Space Exploration and the Search for Extra-terrestrial Life

In recent years, the dramatic progress of space exploration technology spurred by the entry of private companies is drastically expanding humanity's sphere of activity into the unknown depths of space.

One of the most important tasks of such exploration is finding traces of extra-terrestrial life. If there is a discovery suggesting its existence, it would be a remarkable historical achievement.

Furthermore, it will not stop at a merely scientific discovery, but it should be a shock that fundamentally shakes our religious views, philosophy, and the root question of "What is a human being?".

On the other hand, however, deeply rooted critical voices exist regarding the exploration of deep space at the cost of massive national budgets. They argue that solving poverty and environmental issues on Earth should be prioritized.

I see. We must not evaluate this only from a utilitarian point of view such as short-term economic effects or resource development; we must absolutely not lose sight of its significance as a magnificent epic of continuously exploring the origins of mankind and pioneering the horizon of knowledge.

Yes. The feeling of awe, as if touching an abyss, that we hold when looking up at the night sky. Taking that as our compass, I feel we have an obligation to pass the baton of exploration to the next generation.