Speculative Fact #232: A Non-Profit Organization on Mars?

A non-profit organization called Mars One has the lofty goal of establishing a human habitat on Mars by the year 2025.
Skeptics warn that such an undertaking should not be taken lightly and is fraught with risks. Funding will be astronomical and scientists and engineers point out the many ways that the endeavor can turn deadly.
            What if bold civilians lead the way to Mars and establish a trend in space exploration? Much as the pioneers settled the American west space pioneers may blaze the trails beyond.

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