I believe there are some preliminary concepts to establish a base on the moon and use that as a jump point to Mars and beyond.I appreciate it, Rod Snell and Dave70968. Truly, for many years I have wondered about this. Honestly, if ya'll had not explained it in this way, I would not have seen the thrust in this light.
So, this leads to another question I have pondered: would not the moon be a good place to launch from? I mean, with the weak gravity, escape velocity could be increased significantly. This trip to Mars that will take, what, around a year? Well, if launched from the moon, might it not take a matter of days?
The moon actually provides some materials that could be used for construction and fuel, but that is a long distance goal.
A moon base also makes a good scientific outpost.
No atmosphere to obscure telescope images.
The far side would shield radio telescopes from earth radio signals.
^^^ Nice pic BTW