The future will be like the present...only longer [man's future in space]

John Fisher, in his 1962 article "Man's Future in Space," cited the almost limitless opportunities humans can pursue in the seemingly boundless arena of space. But he also fit to caution: "...for one reason or another we may not do so. War, or pestilence, or economic depression, or disillusionment with a difficult task, or a change of heart with respect to what is felt to be important, may cause the drive toward space to fade away, or be limited to the vicinity of the earth." The accomplishments in space during the final sliver of the past millennium have won the awe of people around the world. The term "rocket scientist," although a bit of an oxymoron in its common usage, has come to be synonymous with extraordinary brilliance and the accomplishment of exceedingly challenging tasks. Yet, as we begin a new millennium, it is not technical challenges, as intimidating as they may be, which are likely to limit our future accomplishments in space. Rather, it is "will"- the willingness to devote the effort, treasure, and, yes, even lives to the pursuit of future space triumphs.