Theland, this isn't about religion - any religion. It's about space exploration and it would make a nice change to discuss that without the thread being hijacked.
n. //Khandro, But in the opinion of Stephen Hawking, in order to ensure the survival of the species, human beings will need to colonise other planets.//
Reference please! He said any time that travellers on this planet had 'discovered' new peoples it had ended up as a disaster for one or the other and maybe both, and we should beware of such dangers before trying to find other life forms in the universe.
The fruits of the research producing new technologies for space exploration, have already been of great benefit. New materials, robotics, etc.
What benefits would you like to see for us back here on terra firma as a result of this great science?
I can think of a few.
Given your username, Stargazer, I'd have thought you would be excited by seeing the other side of the moon.
I think space exploration is exciting and should be continued. Not just to find a back-up planet for us to live on, but for the inspiration, science and the huge industry and careers it supports.