Divergent Paths: A World Where NASA Didn't Cancel the Other Apollo Missions

In many alternate histories, the cancellation of the Apollo program remains a pivotal moment in the space race and the history of space exploration. However, what if NASA had pushed forward with its original plan to launch Apollo 18, 19, and 20? Let's delve into the potential outcomes and impacts this scenario would have.

The End of an Era

The Apollo program, the pinnacle of human engineering and scientific achievement of its time, was officially canceled in 1972. President Richard Nixon signed it into obsolescence, primarily due to escalating costs and the military and social crisis at home. However, would a continued program have led to different outcomes?

Potential Missions: Apollo 18, 19, and 20

Apollo 18: Scientific Exploration

Apollo 18 would likely focus on further scientific research and exploration on the Moon. Colonization plans might have already been in effect by the late 1970s. This crew could have established a permanent base, paving the way for a more sustained lunar presence. The astronauts would have set up advanced scientific laboratories and begun the excavation of lunar soil and rocks, furthering our understanding of the Moon's geology and history.

Apollo 19: Lunar Rover Advances

Apollo 19 would mark a significant leap in technology, focusing on the development and testing of advanced lunar rovers. This mission could have resulted in the creation of more efficient and capable exploration vehicles that would significantly reduce the time and effort required for surface operations. The astronauts would have explored new areas of the Moon, possibly discovered new resources, and conducted more extensive geological studies deploying advanced equipment and sample collection techniques.

Apollo 20: Lunar Colony Innovation

Apollo 20 might have been dedicated to the establishment of the first sustainable lunar colony. This would have involved the construction and assembly of modular habitats, life support systems, and energy systems. The mission could have also focused on the development of new agricultural techniques, suited for the harsh lunar environment. This colony would have been a significant milestone in human history, representing the next step in our space exploration and settlement efforts.

Impacts on International Relations

The continuation of the Apollo program could have significantly altered the landscape of international relations. The United States would likely have maintained a more prominent role in shaping the trajectory of human space exploration. It might have fostered stronger cooperation with other nations, particularly those aligned with the US in the space race. However, it would have also faced greater resistance and scrutiny from opponents who believed that resources could have been better allocated to social and economic wellbeing.

Technological Advancements

Continued lunar missions would have propelled advancements in various scientific and technological fields. The development of more capable rocket engines, advanced life support systems, and robust communication technologies could have paved the way for further space exploration. Additionally, the establishment of a lunar colony would have spurred innovations in fields such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and materials science, all of which would have had significant trickle-down effects on Earth.

Public Perception and Morale

The continued exploration of the Moon could have had a profound impact on public morale and perceptions of space exploration. With ongoing missions, the achievements of astronauts would have remained at the forefront of public consciousness, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. It might have also provided a much-needed morale boost during a time of domestic and international challenges, reinforcing the idea of human ingenuity and resilience.

Conclusion

The cancellation of the Apollo program was a complex decision influenced by numerous factors. Had NASA pursued the remaining missions, the course of space exploration would have been profoundly different. The establishment of permanent lunar bases, the development of advanced exploration technologies, and the sustained public interest in space would have been transformative. While it remains a matter of speculation, imagining an alternate history where these missions proceeded can provide valuable insights into the potential consequences of such decisions.