There is always someone musing on the phrase: “space: the final frontier.” The desire to explore the Universe and the possibility of colonising another distant planet—i.e., the so-called utopian “planet B” is extremely compelling. It is with this backdrop that, at our BEP2025 event, we examined who is likely to benefit from space exploration, as well as whether or not to prioritise exploring space at any expense. Ahead of the live discussion and audience interaction, our panel of experts gave their own take on the pros and cons of exploring space.
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PANELLISTS PRESENTATIONS
BEP2025 delved into the history and current state of space exploration. As developing nations join the space race, the result is inevitable: more “space trash.” Meanwhile, Earth’s orbit has become a cluttered realm of satellites, rocket remnants, and even terrestrial microbes and tardigrades which are introduced during exploration. Yet the challenges still faced on Earth, including climate change, dwindling ecosystems and the ongoing extinction of fauna and flora seem no nearer resolution. With restricted resources and urgent needs on Earth, can space exploration truly justify its costs? One key dilemma persists: Should we prioritise space exploration or redirect those efforts toward solving Earth’s immediate problems? Space Exploration vs. Feeding a Starving World? The debate continues and, at BEP2025, we asked: What kind of future are we building, and for whom?
BEP2025 brought together participants from all over the world, creating a truly global experience.
