Jeff Bezos
Speaking at the VivaTech technology conference in Paris, Bezos called the exploration of the Moon a key milestone in the future development of civilization. According to him, only by moving energy-intensive industries into space will we be able to reduce the burden on the planet without sacrificing further improvements in our standard of living.
“We can achieve both,” said the entrepreneur, noting that over the past few centuries, humanity’s standard of living has improved significantly, but this progress has been accompanied by environmental degradation.
Moon exploration is economically viable
According to Euronews, Bezos spoke out against the idea of focusing exclusively on Mars. In his view, the first step should be the Moon, located just three and a half days’ flight from Earth. The Moon’s proximity and low gravity make it an ideal base for further space exploration.
According to the billionaire, transporting materials from the Moon’s surface requires about 28 times less energy than launching cargo from Earth. This opens up opportunities for creating industrial infrastructure in space and supporting future interplanetary missions.
The entrepreneur also pointed to the presence of water ice deposits on the Moon, which could eventually be used to produce rocket fuel. In addition, the lunar surface contains a wide range of minerals necessary for building structures beyond Earth.
Describing the long-term future, Bezos stated that humanity will be able to establish large space settlements, move some computing power and industrial production into orbit, and utilize space-based solar power.
Mars Will Have to Wait
Mars, he said, will remain an important goal, but only after a robust lunar infrastructure has been established.
During his speech, Bezos also discussed the Prometheus artificial intelligence project, which is being developed to accelerate engineering research and the creation of new technologies.
Concluding his speech, the entrepreneur stated that the modern era offers unprecedented opportunities for innovation and business.
“There has never been a better time to be an entrepreneur,” he said.
