Space exploration, generally considered a slowly advancing field in terms of technological advancement, has come a long way since the first object was sent to space during WWII. Mere national pride is not enough to justify space exploration given its cost to a nation struggling with its economy. Space exploration can only be justified if done for significant scientific advancements with national pride as a by-product. Space science is interdisciplinary in nature and lies at the interface between engineering and the sciences. A prerequisite to a successful space exploration mission is on-ground technological advancement and adequate research infrastructure in almost all fields of engineering and science.

Source: The Express Tribune October 01, 2019 03:45 UTC