In an era where space travel is becoming increasingly accessible, this travelogue is meant only to kickstart your list of exotic, adventurous destinations to check out before the end of this century.
In all probability, your journey will begin on planet Earth, the third planet from the Sun. This world has long been known as the Blue Marble, for it is here that life as we know it has blossomed, solely thanks to the evolution of liquid water and Oxygen, together. In the five millennia of human presence, there have been drastic changes to the appearance of this planet, but you will still find instances of untouched nature with all of its marvels. These are what will make Earth a welcoming and alluring option, after, your extra-terrestrial sojourn.
Once you are on your way, you might take a pit-stop on Earth’s moon, Luna. There is not much to admire here, other than state-of-the -art energy production facilities, and the indoor atmospheres, along with a spectacular view of the Earth.
Your first real destination is likely to be Mars, long known as the Red Planet, due to its dusky brown atmosphere and reddish surface. Here, you might want to hike up the Olympus Mons, a volcano with a peak higher than 10 km and maybe walk down the canyons you see from the top. The trek shouldn’t be particularly tiring, due to the relatively low gravity on Mars, which will take us Earthlings some time getting used to. The living facilities have simple technology, and if you feel adventurous you could leave the controlled climate, and go ET spotting! Make sure to inform someone how long you plan to be gone, and stock up for at least double of what you should require!
If you decide to foray onward to Venus, be prepared for a very interesting landing. You might not even realise it when you land. Venus has a very thick, beautiful looking sulphurous atmosphere. It rains poison! Here, the landscape will remain etched in your memory, and the sights are worth the risk. Take it in while you can. Soon, Venus will be exploited for its abundant minerals, similar to Mars.
Continuing on to Mercury will be an expensive affair. There isn’t much to see either. You have seen it all on the Moon — the odd-shaped crater and the low gravity. Even the time seems to pass way too quickly.
Upon returning to Earth, you will probably long for natural water, the humidity and greenery. You might want to consider snorkelling by corals, or rainforest excursions. Seats are very limited. They may be no more. Now it’s up to us, let us make it happen, let us save our planet!
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