Elon Musk's Interplanetary Dream: Mars as Humanity's Ultimate Backup Plan

Elon Musk's vision for Mars extends beyond mere exploration; he envisions it as a "life insurance" policy for humanity. By establishing a self-sustaining civilization on Mars, Musk aims to ensure that human life continues, even if Earth faces catastrophic threats. This forward-looking perspective has positioned Musk and SpaceX at the forefront of interplanetary travel ambitions. Musk's plan involves utilizing SpaceX's Starship, a spacecraft designed for carrying both cargo and humans to Mars, with the goal of making these missions frequent, safe, and affordable.

Musk anticipates that SpaceX will send its Starship, equipped with Tesla's Optimus robot, to Mars by the end of 2026. This ambitious timeline highlights Musk's strategy to integrate innovative technology from across his various enterprises to achieve this monumental goal. The role of Tesla's Optimus robot is to aid in the early stages of Mars's colonization, potentially helping in constructing infrastructure and assisting astronauts upon arrival. While human landings might occur as early as 2029, Musk acknowledges that a 2031 timeline is more realistic, given the complexity and risks involved in such an unprecedented endeavor.

The concept of a self-sustaining Martian colony is deeply rooted in the belief that humanity must become a multiplanetary species to survive long-term existential threats. As Musk outlined, this colony would need to produce all vital resources locally, such as food, water, and oxygen, without relying on Earth for resupply. This ensures that the colony can sustain itself independently, a requirement that demands significant technological advancements and infrastructure development on the Martian surface.

Musk's vision does not solely focus on survival; it aims to pioneer a new era of space colonization, challenging the very limits of human innovation and resilience. By overcoming the challenges of creating a viable living environment on Mars, Musk believes humanity can gain invaluable knowledge and capabilities applicable to future space exploration and possibly solving Earth-bound challenges. This vision, while daring, also draws skepticism from those who question its feasibility and the unresolved economic, social, and ethical concerns it raises.

Elon Musk's vision for colonizing Mars is closely tied to his timeline for establishing a human presence on the Red Planet. Musk has long advocated for Mars colonization as a form of 'life insurance' for humanity, proposing that a self-sustaining civilization on Mars could protect against potential existential threats to human civilization on Earth. According to Musk, SpaceX aims to send a Starship equipped with Tesla's Optimus robot to Mars by the end of 2026, with the first human arrivals potentially as early as 2029. However, he acknowledges that 2031 is a more realistic target for human missions, given the complexities and challenges involved [1](https://www.foxnews.com/media/elon-musk-shares-vision-life-mars-time-doge-winds-down).

The timeline for Mars colonization is ambitious, involving significant advances in technology and space travel. In addition to the Starship's development, which is crucial for carrying large payloads and humans to Mars, Musk plans to integrate Tesla's Optimus robots into the mission, although their specific roles are yet to be detailed. The timeline is also influenced by the extensive testing and safety checks required for such a historic mission. Critics have pointed out the steep financial and logistical challenges, noting that previous projections from Musk have often been optimistic [1](https://www.foxnews.com/media/elon-musk-shares-vision-life-mars-time-doge-winds-down).

Musk's timeline is shaped by both technological innovation and financial strategy. SpaceX's innovative approach has already seen successes with reusable rocket technology and the Starlink satellite network, bolstering its credibility in pursuing Mars colonization. However, experts like Robert Zubrin and Neil deGrasse Tyson have raised concerns about the feasibility of the timeline, citing the need for more comprehensive infrastructure on Mars to support human life and the geopolitical motivations that have typically driven large-scale space exploration projects [11](https://tribune.com.pk/story/2511644/musk-and-degrasse-tyson-clash-again-over-mars-colonization-feasibility).

Public and expert opinions on Musk's Mars timeline vary. The notion of a self-sustaining Martian city continues to capture the imagination of many, with its promise of a new frontier for humanity. Yet, significant skepticism exists due to the immense technological, financial, and human challenges involved. The debate includes whether resources might be better spent addressing pressing issues on Earth. Nevertheless, Musk's timeline remains a bold declaration, potentially motivating technological advancements and inspiring a new generation of scientists and explorers [11](https://tribune.com.pk/story/2511644/musk-and-degrasse-tyson-clash-again-over-mars-colonization-feasibility).

The ambitious Mars colonization plans outlined by Elon Musk through his ventures SpaceX and Tesla aim to leverage technological advancements from both industries. SpaceX's Starship, a fully reusable spacecraft, is central to Musk's vision of turning humanity into a multiplanetary species. It serves as the cornerstone for transportation of materials and personnel to Mars. Starship's development will enable the large-scale construction efforts necessary for establishing a human settlement on the Martian surface. This settlement envisions supporting life through self-sustaining systems that can independently provide food, water, and other essentials needed to survive in the harsh Martian environment. As reported here, Musk's timeline for deploying the Starship aligns with sending it to Mars as early as 2026.

Complementing SpaceX's technological prowess is Tesla's Optimus robot, designed to assist in the construction and maintenance of Martian colonies. The robot is envisioned to handle various tasks such as building habitats, farming, and possibly even mining, thereby reducing the risk and labor requirements for human settlers. As reported, Tesla plans to start producing a 'legion' of these humanoid robots by 2025, significantly before the proposed uncrewed missions to Mars. The integration of Tesla's autonomous and robotics technology is crucial for achieving the labor efficiency needed on Mars, assisting in essential activities such as rapid construction and upkeep of infrastructure.

The integration of SpaceX's and Tesla's technological solutions raises significant debate among experts regarding feasibility. Critics argue that the timeline Musk proposes is overly optimistic given the technical challenges that remain. According to critical assessments from various domains, including complex requirements for creating habitable structures and ensuring reliable life support systems. Others, like Matthew Weinzierl, suggest that Musk's aggressive timelines are strategic to inspire innovation and investment in these areas. SpaceX's history of turning bold visions into reality helps sustain its reputation and operational momentum, as discussed in The Guardian.

In public perception, the fusion of SpaceX's and Tesla's projects amplifies the anticipation and skepticism surrounding the future of Mars colonization. People are both inspired by the audacity of creating a new home on Mars and worried about the significant challenges, including technical, economic, and ethical barriers. Public and expert dialogues continue to explore these dualities, as noted in discussions here, underscoring the necessity of a balanced approach to this complex endeavor. While Musk's vision presents an extraordinary 'life insurance' policy for humanity, it simultaneously calls for a realistic appraisal of current scientific capabilities and resource allocations.

Elon Musk's unexpected venture into optimizing government operations via the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has introduced a novel approach to public sector management. This initiative aimed to streamline government functions by identifying wasteful practices and proposing cost-effective solutions. Under Musk's view, every dollar spent without clear value was seen as an opportunity for improvement, reflecting his broader philosophy of efficiency which he applies across his business ventures. By leveraging complex data analytics and AI-based strategies, Musk sought to pinpoint inefficiencies and reduce bureaucratic bloat, reflecting an engineer's mindset to problem-solving in government sectors. His engagement with DOGE might be winding down, but its influence has sparked discussions on how the private sector’s problem-solving tactics can enhance governmental operations. Fox News highlights that while DOGE faced legal hurdles, the department achieved noteworthy savings and set a precedent for future public-private collaborations in governance.

Perhaps more than anything, Musk’s role with DOGE is a testament to his boundary-pushing approach, taking the innovative methods that have driven his success in the tech and aerospace industries into the realm of public administration. Such cross-sectoral innovations, though controversial, offer a glimpse into how transformational leadership and technology integration can redefine roles within government infrastructures. Despite criticisms and legal challenges, Musk's work with DOGE reflects a growing trend where entrepreneurial leaders apply business innovation concepts to streamline and enhance public service delivery. Critics, however, remain skeptical about the sustainability of such initiatives without rigorous oversight and a balanced approach. Nonetheless, Musk's vision for DOGE nods to a future where government and business practices may increasingly intertwine, underscoring a paradigm shift in how we perceive efficiency across different domains. Fox News reports these efforts could pave the way for more efficient use of taxpayer dollars in the long run.

Mars colonization has been a subject of intense debate among experts, reflecting a blend of optimism and skepticism about humanity's future beyond Earth. Elon Musk's vision, as shared in various platforms, positions Mars as a contingency plan—a backup for humanity should Earth face insurmountable challenges [1](https://www.foxnews.com/media/elon-musk-shares-vision-life-mars-time-doge-winds-down). Despite Musk's bold plans, experts have raised valid concerns about the feasibility and timing of such an ambitious project.

Neil deGrasse Tyson, a well-known astrophysicist, has expressed skepticism about the financial viability of Musk's Mars ambitions, questioning the allocation of vast resources toward space exploration when there are pressing needs on Earth [11](https://tribune.com.pk/story/2511644/musk-and-degrasse-tyson-clash-again-over-mars-colonization-feasibility). Tyson argues that historically, space projects have required significant geopolitical drivers, like the Cold War, suggesting that the current global climate may not support such monumental undertakings solely for colonization.

Conversely, Matthew Weinzierl, a professor at Harvard Business School, underscores the strategic narrative behind Musk’s aggressive timeline, pointing to SpaceX’s history of transforming ambitious visions into technological feats, such as the development of reusable rockets and the expansive Starlink satellite network [5](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/sep/15/musk-humans-live-on-mars-spacex). However, even he concedes that establishing a city on Mars within two decades stretches the limits of current technology and logistics.

Robert Zubrin, president of The Mars Society, appears cautiously optimistic, believing in SpaceX's potential to make significant Mars strides, yet he remains doubtful of meeting Musk’s timeline [5](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/sep/15/musk-humans-live-on-mars-spacex). Zubrin highlights the limited testing of the Starship and the underdeveloped infrastructure needed for sustained human life on Mars as critical obstacles.

Academically, Chris Impey from the University of Arizona echoes these doubts, emphasizing the numerous tests needed for Starship before it can reliably transport humans across interplanetary distances [4](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-14681759/elon-musk-terrifying-sun-prediction-life-mars.html). The proposed inclusion of Tesla's Optimus robot in early missions adds another layer of complexity, potentially delaying the timeline even further.

Public reactions mirror expert opinions, with a split between excitement for the adventurous promise of Mars colonization and apprehension about its practicality and costs [2](https://www.foxnews.com/media/elon-musk-shares-vision-life-mars-time-doge-winds-down)[13](https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/sep/15/musk-humans-live-on-mars-spacex). This duality reflects broader societal divides about pioneering in space versus attending to terrestrial challenges.

Public reactions to Elon Musk's ambitious plans for Martian colonization showcase a wide spectrum of opinions, ranging from enthusiastic support to cautious skepticism. Proponents of the initiative view it as a visionary leap forward for humanity, a daring move that could secure the future of our species by establishing a self-sustaining civilization on Mars. They are particularly inspired by Musk's portrayal of the project as a necessary “life insurance” policy against global catastrophes that could threaten Earth. The idea that humans could expand beyond their home planet excites many space enthusiasts, who see it as a milestone in human history. The timeline presented by Musk, aiming for potential human landings by 2029, adds to the allure by providing a tangible deadline for such a historic event.

However, not everyone shares the same optimism. Critics argue that Musk's plans are overly ambitious and financially burdensome, considering the myriad of unresolved challenges on Earth that require urgent attention. Some skeptics are particularly concerned about the feasibility of achieving a self-sustaining colony on Mars, pointing to the colossal infrastructure and technological advancements required, which remain largely theoretical at this stage. The economic model proposed for a Martian colony, lacking clear pathways to profitability, further fuels doubts about the practicality of such an endeavor, as noted in discussions surrounding the economic implications of interplanetary settlements. Moreover, there is the argument that resources used for Martian colonization might be better allocated to solving pressing Earth-bound issues, like climate change and poverty.

The public discourse around these plans is also influenced by expert opinions, with prominent figures such as Neil deGrasse Tyson voicing skepticism about the practicality and necessity of Mars colonization. Tyson has been particularly vocal about the historical context of space exploration, stressing that past achievements in the field were often driven by geopolitical factors rather than purely exploratory desires. On the other hand, experts like Robert Zubrin, while supportive of SpaceX's aspirations, caution that Musk’s timelines may be overly optimistic given the current pace of technological advancements and infrastructure development. This back-and-forth among experts enriches the public conversation, shaping perceptions about the feasibility and strategic importance of colonizing Mars.

Elon Musk's vision for a self-sustaining Mars civilization presents profound implications for the future of humanity. The concept of transforming Mars into a 'backup' planet illustrates a shift in how we perceive our survival strategies and ambitions. This vision is driven by the existential risks present on Earth, including natural disasters and potential human-made catastrophes. As Musk considers Mars colonization a form of life insurance for humanity, it challenges traditional conservationist approaches which focus on preserving the Earth, pushing instead for advancements that expand human life beyond our planet.

The successful establishment of a self-sustaining colony on Mars could dramatically alter human life in various ways. In the realm of technology and innovation, such a settlement would drive advancements in sustainable energy, life support systems, and autonomous machinery. The technological insights gained from overcoming the challenges of Mars’ environment could have significant spillovers into terrestrial technologies, catalyzing progress in fields marginalized today. Additionally, the development of a Martian economy offers a fascinating opportunity to rethink economic systems, moving away from traditional monetary management toward a barter or information-based economy, as discussed in detail in the economic analyses of Musk's plans.

Socially, the prospect of a Mars settlement opens a new dimension in cultural evolution and diversity. A Martian community would likely develop its own unique culture, shaped by the distinct environmental and social conditions it faces. The isolation and challenging conditions on Mars are expected to foster a close-knit community, with unique forms of social dynamics and communication methods due to the distance from Earth. As noted by public discussions, the psychological and social challenges of such isolation present a crucial area of study, possibly leading to new understandings of resilience and community.

Furthermore, the political realities of establishing a new society on Mars present implications for governance and law. Musk's ideas suggest a society that might initially operate under decentralized governance, possibly evolving into a model of democracy tailored to its own context. The legal uncertainties of extra-terrestrial settlements necessitate international dialogue and treaties that redefine sovereignty and legal jurisdiction in space. As covered by analysts, these developments could reshape existing geopolitical landscapes and inspire new forms of collaboration or conflict.

Finally, the success or failure of establishing a human colony on Mars might set a precedent for future interplanetary exploration and settlement. While today's ambitions are focused on Mars, lessons learned from this venture could pave the way for humanity to reach even further into the cosmos. The potential for technological, economic, and social evolution inherent in this project raises ethical questions about our responsibilities to our own planet while simultaneously compelling us to consider the vast opportunities that lie beyond. As Musk's plans unfold, the world watches, ready to adapt its trajectory based on these historic developments.

One of the most daunting economic challenges in establishing a Martian colony is overcoming the massive initial costs associated with transporting resources across the vast distance between Earth and Mars. This endeavor requires not only substantial investment in spacecraft capable of carrying humans and supplies but also in the development of sustainable life support systems. As noted by Elon Musk, the goal of creating a self-sustaining civilization on Mars demands substantial financial commitments, akin to premiums for a global 'life insurance' policy for humanity [1](https://www.foxnews.com/media/elon-musk-shares-vision-life-mars-time-doge-winds-down). The raw economics of such a venture may be daunting, with analysts and experts pointing out that the cost of establishing the requisite infrastructure could be astronomical. The limited return on investment, at least in the short term, poses a significant risk that any funding may not see immediate or direct financial returns, thereby requiring a model that heavily relies on the long-term vision of interplanetary human habitation.

Furthermore, the creation of a viable economy on Mars involves not just the physical and economic transfer of resources but also the conception of a whole new financial system. The complexities of establishing a currency that holds value both on Mars and Earth is a unique challenge. The disparity between an economy grounded in Earth's economic conditions and one on Mars might necessitate the development of a barter-like system where information or technology could potentially replace traditional currency. In such an economic framework, questions about inequality and wealth disparity may emerge, requiring careful management and regulatory systems to ensure fair opportunities for all settlers. Critics argue that significant hurdles remain in defining what productive economic activities could be sustained on Mars, such as mining or other large-scale industries, and how they can be integrated within a self-sustaining Martian economy [7](https://www.e-ir.info/2021/02/12/opinion-the-economic-flaws-in-elon-musks-mars-colonization-plans/).

Economic implications not only span financial and resource management challenges but also include broader geopolitical impacts. The legal and sovereign status of Mars as a territory presents its own set of economic implications, potentially impacting international law and relations. This aspect becomes complex when considering future trade regulations and economic agreements that would need to be negotiated between Earth-bound nations and Martian colonies. The realization of such a project might hinge on unprecedented international collaboration, requiring agreement on key standards and practices governing economic activities in space [5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SpaceX_Mars_colonization_program). Moves towards Mars colonization could drive technological innovation, opening new markets and economic sectors, while forcing a re-evaluation of economic priorities and spending both on Earth and in extraterrestrial settlements.

The social dynamics on Mars will likely present novel challenges and opportunities for the settlers. With Elon Musk's vision of establishing a self-sustaining civilization on the Red Planet, diverse groups of settlers will need to collaborate in a demanding and unfamiliar environment. This social experiment will test human adaptability and resourcefulness. Colonists will have to develop new norms and societal structures that accommodate the physical constraints of living on Mars, such as limited space and resources, as well as the psychological effects of isolation [].

One of the most significant challenges will be maintaining mental health and morale. Given the prolonged isolation from Earth and the harsh Martian conditions, there is a potential for psychological strain among colonists. Programs supporting mental health will be crucial in ensuring the well-being and productivity of the community. Design considerations for habitats that foster social interaction could mitigate feelings of loneliness and alienation. Communal activities, such as celebrating Earth holidays or sharing meals, may help maintain a sense of normalcy and cultural continuity in the settlers' lives [].

Resource management on Mars will demand a significant shift in social organization and cooperation. The scarcity of resources necessitates the development of efficient systems for utilizing and replenishing essentials like water, air, and food. This challenge will require transparent governance and community-led decision-making to ensure equitable distribution and sustainability. These situations could foster strong community bonds but also present potential for conflicts if resources become critically limited or mismanaged [].

The development of a social system on Mars offers a unique opportunity to rethink traditional societal norms. As colonists form new communities, they may draw inspiration from Earth's diverse cultures, selecting elements that are best suited for Martian life. This could lead to innovative governance systems and social structures that might one day influence societies back on Earth. The isolation of a Martian settlement could also permit a degree of experimentation in social engineering that is not feasible in Earth's more populated and established societies [].

Elon Musk's vision for colonizing Mars transcends mere scientific curiosity and enters the realm of political pioneering. The establishment of a Martian government would necessitate new political frameworks that accommodate the unique circumstances of extraterrestrial life. Musk has touched upon the idea that a Martian colony might one day establish its own independent government and legal system, creating questions about sovereignty and jurisdiction. This calls for international cooperation and the development of new treaties to address jurisdictional challenges and the application of Earth's laws beyond our planet .

The concentration of power within a Martian colony poses significant concerns. With Musk's SpaceX potentially having considerable control over the governance of such a colony, the issues of democratic governance and potential abuses of power arise. This underscores the necessity for an independent governmental framework that ensures checks and balances, possibly drawing lessons from democratic systems on Earth. Such a government would need to balance efficient decision-making with accountability to its colonists, a task that demands creative political solutions .

Furthermore, the relationship between Earth and its potential Martian counterpart would need careful navigation. Would Mars operate independently, or remain subject to Earth-based governance? The absence of existing political structures for interplanetary governance raises many speculative yet important questions. These include whether Martian colonists would retain citizenship on Earth or identify primarily with their new home, and how conflicts between the Martian government and Earth governments would be resolved. These considerations highlight the need for a forward-thinking approach to political organization in space exploration .

Elon Musk's ambitious plans to colonize Mars have naturally sparked a great deal of curiosity and prompted numerous questions from the public. His vision encompasses more than just a technological feat; it aims at establishing a new epoch for humanity, paving the way for the cosmos to become a second abode. By transforming the idea of Mars colonization into a concerted effort, Musk isn't merely focusing on the technology that would carry humans across space but also on the societal, economic, and political structures essential for sustaining life on a different planet.

A frequent query posed by many revolves around the timeline envisioned by Musk. Questions about when the first human steps will be taken on Martian soil often arise. Musk's assertions suggest a preliminary uncrewed mission could happen by the end of 2026, with human missions subsequent to that, potentially as early as 2029. However, for many analysts, 2031 remains the more plausible target, based on the rigorous testing and development required. The preparatory steps include launching a Starship with Tesla's Optimus robot, which is expected to mark a pivotal point in the manned mission timeline to Mars.

Another prevalent question concerns the concept of a 'self-sustaining' civilization on Mars. The idea might seem straightforward; however, it encompasses complex layers of challenges and necessities. For a colony to be independent, it's not just about having homes or shelters on Mars but having all necessary elements for survival produced in situ. This includes localized generation of essentials such as food, water, and oxygen, along with energy sources. Additionally, the ability to manufacture and repair technological and mechanical tools is vital. Establishing a consistent loop of resource generation and utilization without reliance on Earthly supplies embodies the cornerstone of Musk’s vision for Mars.

Details about Musk's involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) also pique curiosity. His role here leans towards strategizing ways to mitigate governmental excess and maximize efficacy. Although his participation with DOGE might be winding down, the impact of his efforts illustrates a side of his endeavors that converge with public administration, pointing towards a potential for his strategies in governmental reform to influence his approach to governance on Mars.

The queries do not end here. There are concerns about how long Earth can continue to support human life before celestial events like the expansion of the sun impact it significantly. NASA has estimated that such events are billions of years into the future, which offers a window for exploration beyond our planet. Musk envisions these cosmic timelines as an opportunity rather than a deadline, framing his Mars initiative as 'life insurance' for humanity.

Public interest encompasses every detail of this monumental endeavor, highlighting a universal curiosity about space exploration and humanity's place in the vast universe. Musk’s propositions, though audacious, invite the public to rethink their role and future in the cosmos, encouraging a pioneering spirit to traverse new frontiers.

The exploration of Mars represents a significant step toward the future of space travel, embodying not only scientific curiosity but also broader aspirations for human expansion beyond Earth. Elon Musk's vision for colonizing Mars is ambitious, aiming to establish a sustainable civilization that operates independently from Earth. This initiative is seen as a necessary precaution—a kind of life insurance for humanity, ensuring survival against global catastrophes. With SpaceX's ongoing development of the Starship, designed for large-scale interplanetary transport, these goals are gradually transitioning from speculative plans to tangible projects. The prospective timeline for human landings on Mars is as early as 2029, with a more probable estimate around 2031. This bold timeline underscores the urgency and dedication SpaceX brings to pushing the boundaries of space exploration [Fox News].

However, the road to Mars is fraught with formidable challenges. Critics, including prominent figures like Neil deGrasse Tyson, question the feasibility and value of such an endeavor, often highlighting the massive financial commitments required and the pressing issues that still persist on Earth. Explorations into space have historically been driven by geopolitical motivations, as seen during the Cold War, and whether such factors will play a role in Musk's Mars missions remains to be seen [The Express Tribune].

From an economic standpoint, the implications of a Martian settlement are profoundly complex. Establishing a self-sustaining economy on Mars would necessitate a vast upfront investment in transporting essential supplies, technology, and human resources from Earth. The concept of developing a currency that bridges Earth and Mars economies poses additional challenges, necessitating innovative solutions for economic coherence between planets. Many speculate that the development of a Martian economy could center around information, possibly leading to unique trade systems based on data exchange rather than traditional physical goods [E-IR].

Socially, life on Mars would demand unprecedented adjustments for those brave enough to migrate. The stark isolation and harsh environmental conditions require comprehensive psychological adjustments and support systems to ensure the well-being of colonists. Creating a viable colony on Mars could also require novel approaches to community building, given the unique constraints of living in such an extreme environment. This entails addressing not only the physical but also the psychological and social needs of inhabitants, ensuring harmonious societal dynamics that can thrive on Mars [E-IR].

Politically, the governance of a Martian colony presents uncharted territories. Discussions around potential independent governance systems highlight significant questions about sovereignty and political structures that might emerge. How such a colony negotiates laws, human rights, and international relationships will not only shape the colony's future but could also redefine interplanetary diplomacy. The prospect of building a new societal framework from scratch presents opportunities for innovation but also risks inherent in concentrating authority in a single private entity, like SpaceX [Wikipedia].

In conclusion, while the path to Mars is laid with grand visions and pioneering steps, it also circles back to examining our priorities and the essential unity of humanity. Elon Musk’s vision of a self-sustaining Martian colony poses not only a technological challenge but also an invitation to question and potentially redefine human existence, our relationship to technology, and our responsibility to each other and our planet. It serves as a reminder that while venturing out into the cosmos, the most profound journey may still be within ourselves, exemplifying both ambition and introspection as we consider our place in the universe [The Guardian].