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SCMP Reporter

Question of the week:  How far will man go with space exploration in the next 10 years?

Ottilie Yuen Sze-wai, 16

St Paul's Convent School

In 10 years, space exploration will be available to the public. Space resorts will become a reality. You can admire the beauty of far-away galaxies while relaxing beside a swimming pool overlooking planet Earth. The future space industry will put profits before the pursuit of knowledge because of the entry of private firms and decline of Nasa's influence. It is reasonable to predict that no major scientific breakthroughs will be achieved but space tourism will become a big business.

Winnie Tong Wai-yee, 15

Shun Tak Fraternal Association Lee Shau Kee College

Mars. In 2003, the European Space Agency launched the Mars Express craft consisting of the Mars Express Orbiter and the lander Beagle 2. Mars Express Orbiter confirmed the presence of water ice and carbon-dioxide ice at the planet's south pole. Also in 2003, Nasa launched the twin Mars exploration rovers.  Both missions have exceeded their targets. With the advanced technology, I think men can go to Mars in the next 10 years.

Terence Li, 16

St Mark's School

The newly discovered 10th planet in our solar system is a stunning development in the history of space exploration. In the next 10 years, manned exploration of the moon will continue. Spacecrafts will be sent to orbit Venus, Jupiter and other far-away planets. We will find clues to the formation of the solar system - this is what Deep Impact 1 is aiming at. We may also unveil the secrets of black holes and encounter the first alien!

Matthew Lam, 15

Island School

I don't think man will set foot on Mars any time sooner than 10 years even though lots of observational equipment has landed on the Red Planet. After the Columbia shuttle disaster, all Nasa space flights were rescheduled. It took Nasa another two and a half years to send another space shuttle, Discovery, just to orbit earth. But the Columbian problem still exists so there won't be any space flights until it is fixed.

Gary Lee Chi-kei, 16

Lok Sin Tong Ku Chiu Man Secondary School

In the next 10 years, more and more people will be able to travel in space. We can explore some places and planets far, far away and discover more about the universe.  And we might discover other living things or a planet that is suitable for us to live on. Then we can leave the Earth and move there.

Ray Siu Sun-wang, 16

Carmel Divine Grace Foundation Secondary School

As we know, a particular part of the Mars' surface has a similar appearance to Earth. If that area is mined, water may flush out. An atmosphere can be formed so organisms will be able to survive on Mars. It is such a brilliant discovery that Nasa should investigate this further. Consequently, man will continue to explore Mars in more detail over the next 10 years.

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