my comment was based upon your earlier statement:
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I'd rather see money directed toward understanding the true impact of what we (humans) are doing to this planet, then that understanding can be directed towards rectification actions; manufacturing, waste disposal, education...the list is huge.
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and I do not see the ISS as being big part of that, although I am sure arguments can be put forward as to how and why it can be used to improve the "human condition".
However, I do not actually know how much is spent directly on the ISS and on all of the associated aspects (staffing, project management, monitoring, etc.) and the cost to move things up to it. Perhaps it is small in the grand scheme of things.
having said that, I am a fan of the ISS and think the costs are worth it, even if it used to solve problems that *
at the moment* mean little to humanity as a whole, or to solve problems that may lead to a good outcome for humanity (referencing your Gravity wave scenario) or even if the end result is to simply answer the question "Why?" with " Because it's there..."
same with going to mars.
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The biggest hurdle, in keeping the ISS operational, isn't the ISS. It's the payload to orbit dilemma. The Shuttle, as good as getting payloads to and from orbit as it is - is inherently dangerous and costly...a maintenance contractor's dream come true ($$$).
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anyone know if they have decided upon a replacement for the shuttle? and if so, when it will be ready for use?