"Royal Astronomer Warns Against Elon Musk's Mars Plan as 'Dangerous Illusion'"

Royal Astronomer Lord Rees of Ludlow criticizes Elon Musk's plan to colonize Mars, calling it a "dangerous illusion" and emphasizing the impracticality and risks involved. He argues that human space exploration should be privately funded, with public funding directed towards less risky robotic exploration. Lord Rees highlights the challenges of Mars colonization, including the lack of a breathable atmosphere, protective magnetosphere, and the difficulties of transporting resources. He suggests that addressing Earth's problems should take precedence over ambitious Mars colonization plans.