Astronomy - space vehicles

Laser beams, intergalactic thrusters and space tourism, sound like a sci-fi movie?
Well as weird as it may be, the above proposals and other many similar ideas that once seemed only of imagination may soon be possible.
Ever since the first days of man, the human race has been baffled by the heavens above always wondering what is out there and if the moon really is made of “Swiss cheese”?
Over time the human race has developed machines and other devices to help itself and to explore our boundaries, from the invention of the wheel to the horse and cart, to trains, boats and cars and now the modern day space shuttle.
Technology has greatly been a factor in what we have achieved in travel, being a limiting aspect to what can be achieved.
To achieve adequate technology for further development, research must be conducted.
Research and material development are one of the most expensive aspects of space travel in that there is so much that has to be taken into consideration for the p...