Are we ready to be a multi-planetary species?

The idea of human beings becoming a multi-planet species has long been a topic of science fiction and speculation, but recent advances in technology have made it a real possibility. In this article, we will explore the ways in which human beings can become a multi-planet species, the reasons why we should strive to do so, and an estimate of when this may become a reality.

One of the most significant ways in which human beings can become a multi-planet species is through the colonization of other planets. Mars, in particular, has been identified as a potential destination for human colonization due to its proximity to Earth and its similarities to our planet, including a similar axial tilt, similar day-night cycle, and the presence of water on its surface.

Space agencies such as NASA and SpaceX are already working on plans to send humans to Mars. NASA's "Artemis" program aims to land the first woman and the next man on the lunar south pole by 2024, while SpaceX's Starship spacecraft is being developed with the goal of sending humans to Mars as early as 2024. Both NASA and SpaceX have announced plans to establish a permanent human presence on Mars and to use it as a jumping-off point for further exploration and colonization of the solar system.

The colonization of other planets would not only serve as a way to ensure the survival of the human species in the event of a catastrophic event on Earth, but it would also open up new opportunities for scientific discovery and economic growth. Colonies on other planets would serve as a base for research in fields such as astrobiology, geology, and climatology. They would also provide new resources and potential new markets for industries such as mining, agriculture, and energy production.

Another way in which human beings can become a multi-planet species is through the development of self-sustaining space habitats. These habitats, which could be located in Earth's orbit, on the Moon, or on other planets, would provide a place for humans to live and work in space, allowing us to expand our presence beyond the Earth.

The development of these habitats would require advances in technologies such as life support systems, recycling, and 3D printing. Some companies are already making significant strides in this area, such as NanoRacks and Axiom Space, which are developing commercial space stations to provide a new avenue for research and manufacturing in space.

So why should we strive to become a multi-planet species? One of the most compelling reasons is to ensure the survival of our species. The Earth is a fragile planet, and human activities such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change are putting it at risk. By becoming a multi-planet species, we can ensure that the human race will survive even if a catastrophic event occurs on Earth.

Another reason for pursuing this goal is the potential for new opportunities and discoveries. The exploration of other planets and the colonization of space would open up new frontiers for scientific research and economic growth. In addition, becoming a multi-planet species would allow us to expand our understanding of the universe, and our place within it, by studying the origins of life and the potential for life on other planets.

Finally, becoming a multi-planet species would be a major achievement for humanity, one that would demonstrate our ability to overcome the challenges of space travel and to establish a foothold in a new frontier. It would inspire people of all ages and backgrounds, and create new opportunities for collaboration, innovation and creativity.

Estimating when human beings can become a multi-planet species is a challenging task, many factors such as technological advancement, budget, politics and international collaboration play a role. However, based on the current trajectory and enthusiasm, I reckon, it is possible that we could see the first human colony on Mars within the next decade or so.

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Faiz as he is fondly called, is an intergalactic dreamer and a serial entrepreneur. Chairperson?IBF Malaysia : International Business Forum ?????at?CILT Malaysia - The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Malaysia, Council Member?Federation of Malaysian Freight Forwarders?and the Veep, Persatuan Pengusaha Logistik Bumiputera. He graduated with a Bachelors Degree of Business Administration (Transport), from?Universiti Teknologi MARA?and later did a Post Grad-Diploma in Port and Logistics Management from University of Cambridge.?

After 20 years in the Ports and Terminal Industry, in December 2016, he founded?Sufi Group Sdn Bhd?to start his entrepreneurship journey. He continues to contribute to the development of Malaysian?#logistics?&?#supplychain?, Transportation Policy, Urban Transportation, Last Mile Logistics, Ports & Terminal, Maritime and?#esg?in both Academics and Professional fronts.

A hopelessly loving Hubby and Dad, still trying hard to deal with the fact that CR7 have left MUFC, Elon Musk fanboy and believed the chatGPT is the new Knowledge Age. He felt younger for a few decades every time he listens to the tunes of Coldplay, Matchbox 20, Queen and Ramones. Contributed his ramblings to Tigers Super Sports Media Group and CILTM Newsletter once in a while, ape-shit crazy about MCU & Star Wars, loves the nature and has not been running, hiking and playing rugby as much as he wanted to lately