{"product_id":"9781588345042","title":"The Value of the Moon: How to Explore, Live, and Prosper in Space Using the Moon's Resources","description":"While the Moon was once thought to hold the key to space exploration, in  recent decades, the U.S. has largely turned its sights toward Mars and  other celestial bodies instead. In \u003ci\u003eThe Value of the Moon\u003c\/i\u003e, lunar  scientist Paul Spudis argues that the U.S. can and should return to the  moon in order to remain a world leader in space utilization and  development and a participant in and beneficiary of a new lunar economy.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpudis  explores three reasons for returning to the Moon: it is close, it is  interesting, and it is useful. The proximity of the Moon not only allows  for frequent launches, but also control of any machinery we place  there. It is interesting because recorded deep on its surface and in its  craters is the preserved history of the moon, the sun, and indeed the  entire galaxy. And finally, the moon is useful because it is rich with  materials and energy. The moon, Spudis argues, is a logical base for  further space exploration and even a possible future home for us all.  Throughout his work, Spudis incorporates details about man's fascination  with the moon and its place in our shared history. He also explores its  religious, cultural, and scientific resonance and assesses its role in  the future of spaceflight and our national security and prosperity.","brand":"Smithsonian Institution Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47137907900656,"sku":"9781588345042","price":16.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9781588345042_p0.jpg?v=1763807684","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9781588345042","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}