I won’t give up on science

Re It’s hard to just have a little faith, Letters, Nov. 1

Joe Prochazka of Oshawa expressed concern about science in his letter. He knows that exploring Mars is a waste of time and resources because he believes in God. I was unaware that the Bible or the Koran or any Holy Book mentioned Mars, but I have not studied them as closely as Mr. Prochazka.

Since the Space Age began in the early 1960s, there have been more than 50 missions to Mars. Some have been complete failures that never got off the launch pad; one is en route, expected to land this month; and at least seven more are in development.

Mr. Prochazaka opines that science has not answered the question of how the universe got started (to his satisfaction) and nothing will be found on Mars. I am not sure that the main reason for exploring Mars is to answer that inquiry, and will religious believers give up their beliefs if “something” is found on the red planet?

Science poses questions every day and looks for those elusive answers, knowing they will raise more questions. I agree with the great British scientist Richard Dawkins when he stated, “I am against religion because it teaches us to be satisfied with not understanding the world.”

I love the idea that deep in the dark expanse of space there is a rocket that is getting ready to land on a planet 54.6 million kilometres from here. I hope they do find the microbe and I would be pleased to hear about the alien can-opener. But if Mars is only a lovely red expanse of sand I will not give up on science.