Leading astronomer urges Europe to end human space missions

Britain's leading astronomer has called on Europe to end human spaceflights because he says they are no longer cost effective or a benefit to science. Astronomer Martin Rees told CNN that the European Space Agency (ESA) should focus on robotic exploration instead. "The practical case for sending people into space is getting weaker as robots are getting better," Rees said. "Spaceflights have become an adventure sport," he explained. "The space station only makes the news when something goes wrong or when Chris Hadfield plays the guitar." More

(Source: CNN - Jun 17)