To the editor: So large groups of engineers and scientists have spent greater than a decade and $4.3 billion constructing an area telescope to look tremendous deep house for planets which may be just like Earth (“NASA’s new space telescope will aid hunt for ‘Earth twins’ and seek the fate of the universe,” Aug. 28). The sunshine to be studied got here from these planets billions of years in the past. They could not exist.
At greatest, the scientists will conclude from all of the collected information that sure, there simply would possibly presumably be some planets on the market just like Earth.
However we already know that from sixth-grade science class: It’s a cheap assumption that some exist. However so what? They’re too far away to visit.
With the inconclusive conclusion already determined, the scientists are planning the brand new Liveable Worlds Observatory to strive for a greater view. And can come to the identical conclusion.
Will there be any direct advantages to society from these efforts aside from enhanced engineering expertise and employment salaries? Are there no extra vital, urgent issues that may very well be solved with $4.3 billion?
Dick Helmuth, Costa Mesa
