Heights & Depths: A Response -- Ryohei Mizuta

 Punching the limit of both upwards and downwards are important to us but we have to know the benefits are different depending on different timescales. About the former, we might not be able to see the result during our lifespan; on the other hand, research about deep-sea water will show quick results. I’d like to address these differences.

 Exploring the deep sea will give us benefits in a relatively short term. For example, a useful microbe whose enzyme can degrade toxic compounds like H2S (hydrogen sulfide) exists. Through studying such enzymes, we can develop water purification technology. Deep sea creatures give us insights into withstanding extreme water pressure, ultra-black applied for more developed solar panels, and better sensors underwater. Additionally, on the bottom of the sea, rare metals and earths are found. These facts indicate that the deep sea clearly offers good sources for our future technology.

 What about space? Planetary exploration contributes to technology that avoids a severe impact of an asteroid on the earth. This method was already applied by NASA. Undiscovered elements, substances, or creatures might also be useful. At least, there are some unique chemical elements or substances in space that can’t exist under the atmosphere. Those accelerate research about chemistry. Other beneficial consequences will occur. However, such fundamental research doesn’tbear fruit in a short term. We must be patient for far future happiness because our ancestors did the same thing without knowing the outcomes.

 In conclusion, both research beyond the sea and space are essential for our future development, although the time spans to achieve the goals are far different.