Can space exploration survive the end of the Cold War?

Abstract

The first, heroic age of space exploration was driven by national rivalry between the USA and USSR. There have indeed been recent achievements, but as the Cold War ends the superpowers are turning their attention to domestic issues and the prospect looms of a prolonged hiatus in space exploration. The only way forward is through international cooperation, but this will never happen without a serious investment of political will. A well-planned, long-term strategy for the exploration of Mars could provide the necessary focus.

Additional details