The Eighth Continent: A Vision for Exploration of the Moon and Beyond

Four decades have passed since man rst set foot on the Moon. The ensuing euphoria lled us with anticipation and expectation that we would soon visit Mars, but this lofty aspiration quickly faded. Should we return to the Moon? Should we visit some other solar system destination, like Mars or an asteroid? Or should we simply not bother? Debate grows over the justi cation for a return to the Moon. This paper explores the bene ts of pursuing future manned lunar missions for the good of all humanity and to further establish the legacy of the human race as a spacefaring species.