Final answer:
Humans have various motivations for space exploration including scientific discovery, resource acquisition, the search for extraterrestrial life, and ensuring humanity's survival. Mars and Europa are astrobiology targets due to conditions possibly supporting life. The future of human destiny in space, including colonization, is debated based on a myriad of factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Humans explore other worlds in the solar system for a variety of reasons, including scientific research, the potential for resources, the search for extraterrestrial life, and to ensure the long-term survival of humanity. These missions are often considered worthwhile due to the significant scientific gains and the potential long-term benefits for humanity. Space exploration requires a sizable investment, but many argue that the advances in technology and our understanding of the universe justify the costs.
Mars and Europa are top targets for astrobiology because of evidence suggesting past or present conditions that may support life. Mars has a history of liquid water on its surface, and Europa is believed to have a subsurface ocean. Traveling between the stars is difficult due to the vast distances involved, requiring propulsion and life support systems far beyond our current capabilities.
The discussion about whether humans should continue to be involved in space exploration involves weighing the risks and rewards. The question of human destiny in space ties back to our innate desire to explore and our long-term survival. Establishing colonies on the Moon or Mars or habitats in space are options that are debated based on budgets, technological feasibility, and ethical considerations. Still, many see human colonization of other planets as the next step in our evolution as a spacefaring species.