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The Impossibility of Colonizing the Galaxy

OriginalArlen writes "The science fiction writer Charlie Stross has written an excellent and comprehensive explanation of why, thousands of SF books, movies, and games notwithstanding, human colonization of other star systems is impossible. Although interstellar colonization seems common-sensical to many, Charlie makes a clear-headed and unarguable case, so far as I can see, that it ain't gonna happen without a 'magic wand' or two. Nevertheless it would be interesting to see reasoned responses from the community who believe that colonization is not merely possible, but inevitable — and even, as Hawking has said, vital for the survival of the species. So, who's right — Hawking or Stross?"

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  1. Re:Both right? by thc69 · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Good luck getting those crazy heavier-than-air ships off the ground too. The future is in trains and zeppelins.
    How about heavier-than-air zeppelins, perhaps made of led?
    --
    Procrastination -- because good things come to those who wait.