By Chris Williamson-
NASA faces a likely delay in its announced mission to Mars.
A report by NASA’s office of inspector general (OIG) claims that the ambitious plans face technical and financial changes.
NASA had scheduled an exploration to Mars that scientists expect will eventually transport hardware and people to Mars by 2030.
However , costs for the software and hardware for the ambitious mission is behind schedule.
PROVISION
There is no provision available for miscellaneous costs the preparation and process may require, the report claims.
The report from the OIG states that various habitats and modules will need to be placed in and around the moon to accomplish the mission.
This will create an environment in Mars for astronauts to visit and train. As Ideal as it all sounds, it needs plenty of money to make it happen.
Although NASA has spent about 15bn dollars on their big project, the long term costs of this grand mission is estimated at 200 bn dollars.
Therefore, the project is underfunded, and likely to be delayed before it eventually happens , if ever.
REAL AMBITION
The ambition is real, so it won’t ever be aborted. The American government will just have to cough up the money, or NASA may have to get extra funding from the likes of Ian Musk or any rich oligarchs who share their vision.