Following a successful test flight around the Moon, NASA recently sent four astronauts on a lunar flyby mission aboard Artemis II. The mission was the first crewed launch back to deep space in more than 50 years since NASA’s last moon mission. As Artemis II marks a steppingstone for NASA’s goal to eventually put astronauts on Mars, students at Sinclair College shared their thoughts.
“I’ve heard a lot of conspiracy theories, so I’m kind of skeptical about it,” said dental hygiene student Mora Menzie on her opinion of sending astronauts back to space. She was referring to the moon landing 50 years ago.
Menzie went on to say that people today still care about space exploration, specifically Mars.
“I think it’s something exciting, especially with everything going on in the world. It gives people something positive,” said Paige Burrell, who is also studying dental hygiene. Burrell noted that she would personally go to space if given the opportunity but understands why some people would be wary because of the dangers that come with space travel.
There were some differing opinions when it came to NASA’s budget. Some students did not believe it was necessary to spend so much money on sending astronauts into space.
Students like Burrell saw the positives that come with space exploration. “It can help people and advance technology,” said Burrell.
Other interviewees said they thought America should not be spending money on space exploration.
“I feel like we should focus more on fixing our own economy here at home than trying to see what’s out there,” said nursing student Lila Fudge.
Nursing professional Yasmin Amadi shared a similar sentiment and said America should focus more on the economy than space travel. “People involved in space missions can afford to go explore outer space without worries about their economy,” she said.
About the prospect of Americans going to Mars in the future, Amadi said, “I personally believe we still have a lot to fix here before we go out trying to explore other planets.”
Fudge said her opinions on the subject were neutral. “I feel like it’s kind of silly with everything going on, but at the same time, it’s important to learn more about our surroundings,” she said. “It could be good or bad. There’s a lot we don’t know yet.”
“I actually found out about the moon landing on social media,” said nursing student Muhire Faustin. He also said he “used to think the mission was questioning if people could survive in space or not.”
Faustin felt that America is spending too much money on the mission without any valid reason. “Why spend all that money when you don’t even know what you’ll find?” he said. “First, better your country, then go on space exploration.”
Tartans’ responses reflect a mix of curiosity, excitement and concern. While some view Artemis II as a step toward the future, others believe immediate issues on Earth should take priority.
Jean-Luc Nsabindora, reporter
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