Sci-Fi And Technology

This article discusses the feedback between sci-fi and computer technology. The connection between near future sci-fi and computers actually seems valid, but in other areas of technology, not so much. Most sci-fi about space travel has been way off, for example. And this is only interplanetary, not interstellar travel that I'm talking about!

Look at 2001: A Space Odyssey. Large permanent space stations orbit the earth. Travel to and from the stations is routine. There is a fairly realistic long term deep space mission to Jupiter using a ship specially build for the project. Compare that to the proposed Mars mission which, even if it does happen, will be 30 years later and probably be less technologically advanced. The computer might be right though. ^_^

Of course the difference in complexity between computer technology and space travel is huge. But there is another more subtle difference. Computer technology is created by private companies that are motivated by profit. Space technology is still largely funded by governments motivated by... what? That is changing of course, but those private companies involved in space tech are still very young, and in some cases are using 60 year old technology.