Though I've never been a fan of science fiction, it is interesting to contemplate the presence of civilizations on other planets and in other galaxies; indeed, it is a mathematical certainty that they exist. Nevertheless, even if we could travel at the speed of light, it would take humans more than a lifetime to reach what is likely our closest inhabitable planet.
Meanwhile, scientists focused on space exploration talk about sending astronauts to Mars which, they propose, we might colonize some day (especially if Earth becomes uninhabitable). While the space station, space probes and, perhaps, an outpost on the moon make sense from a scientific point of view, the push to send man to Mars will divert funds that might otherwise be used to improve living conditions on Earth. In my opinion, it is better to direct research toward the development of pollution free energy systems and other projects that protect the natural environment of our home planet. Combined with efforts to control the human population, such a focus will, in the long run, be more beneficial to humans (and other life forms on this planet) than will a race to inhabit Mars.
Earth is, after all, our natural home. Diverting funds from the conservation of this planet in order to occupy another makes little sense. I'd rather go down with the Earth than live in a dome on Mars.
