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NASA Launches Three Satellite Missions

Is space exploration essential for humanity, or a waste of valuable resources?
NASA Launches Three Satellite Missions
Above: SpaceX's Twilight mission achieves liftoff in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on Jan. 12. Image credit: Plan-S/Anadolu/Getty Images

The Spin

Techno-optimist narrative

NASA's latest satellite missions will build on the discoveries of the past to advance humanity's understanding of the universe beyond our solar system. These efforts will provide mankind with essential data necessary for future space exploration, a goal vital for advancing technological progress and ensuring the long-term survival of our species.

Cynical narrative

Space exploration is a waste. Instead of being used to address crises such as homelessness or access to clean water, space agencies spend billions on discovering distant black holes and planets, which offer no benefit to those struggling with real challenges on Earth. The U.S. should reassess its priorities and put human needs before its own curiosity.

Metaculus Prediction


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© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0

© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0