Robert Ballard on the Importance of Ocean Exploration

Oceanographer Robert Ballard is best known for the discovery of the RMS Titanic. But his real love is telling people about his love for the geography of the seventy-two percent of planet which is underwater. Not only does he give interesting geographic information (56% of the United States is beneath the sea and we have better maps of Mars than the 56%) but also gives serious economic justifications for finally getting serious about oceanic exploration. Ballard does a better job advocating his views than many astronauts give with the romantic dream of exploring space. (Hat tip: Watchful eyes, thoughtful minds)