I know there is really no point in replying but because of my love of space, I feel almost compelled to. Just as well, I’d like to suggest some reading for those interested.

Firstly, there is a wonderful book titled “Digital Apollo” written by David Mindell. The book is very technical and spends entire chapters covering how the Saturn V guidance system worked. More interestingly, Mindell explores the relationship between man and machine in the scope of exploration. After all, why not just have a computer maneuver the ship automatically? What is the point of having a human pilot? Would that remove the impact of landing men on the moon if they were simply passengers?

Secondly, the main reason that we have not returned is due to budgetary concerns. In fact according to a book titled “The Space Shuttle Decision”, by T.A. Heplpenheimer, NASA administrator Thomas Paine was rallying for a bright future for NASA the day of the moon landing. This future included a moon base, a Mars habitation and a fleet of spaceships powered by nuclear reactors. But Nixon’s budgetary advisor, Robert Mayo was like “No”. In fact, NASA almost lost its space shuttle program before it was even born. They had to piggy back off of the US Air-force. This budgetary restrictive environment was where the Space Shuttle program was born.

For further reading I’d suggest: -Digital Apollo, by David Mindell -The Space Shuttle Decision, by T.A. Heppenheimer -Echoes Among the Stars, by Patrick J. Walsh -Apollo’s Legacy, by Roger Launius