The year is 2077. Humanity has established a permanent presence on the Artemis Station, orbiting Earth. This marvel of engineering, a testament to international collaboration, houses researchers from diverse backgrounds, pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. However, the utopian vision of a united humanity working towards a common goal is marred by the shadows of Earth's past. Environmental degradation, a consequence of unchecked industrialization and resource depletion, continues to plague the home planet. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and widespread ecological collapse have forced mass migrations and intensified existing social inequalities. These environmental refugees, disproportionately from marginalized communities in the Global South, face prejudice and discrimination, mirroring historical patterns of racism and xenophobia. On Artemis Station, a carefully curated sense of unity prevails. Yet, subtle biases persist. Access to resources, research opportunities, and leadership positions are not always equitably distributed. While diversity is championed in official statements, a closer examination reveals a subtle but significant disparity in the power dynamics between researchers from developed and developing nations. The legacy of colonialism continues to shape the social landscape, even in the seemingly neutral environment of space. Dr. Anya Sharma, an astrophysicist from India, finds herself facing this reality. She is a brilliant scientist, recognized for her groundbreaking research on sustainable energy solutions for space habitats. However, she struggles to secure funding for her projects, encountering resistance from colleagues who seem more interested in short-term gains than in addressing the long-term sustainability challenges facing humanity. Her struggle highlights the ongoing conflict between economic priorities and environmental responsibility, a conflict amplified by the deep-seated inequalities inherited from Earth. The Artemis Station represents both the pinnacle of human achievement and a microcosm of our unresolved societal issues. The question remains: can humanity transcend its past prejudices and build a truly equitable future, both on Earth and beyond? The answer, perhaps, lies in confronting the systemic inequalities that continue to undermine the pursuit of a sustainable and just world. The future of humanity, on Earth and in space, depends on it.
1. What is the primary challenge facing humanity in 2077, according to the passage?
2. What does Dr. Anya Sharma's struggle symbolize?
3. What is the author's overall tone towards the future of humanity?
4. Which of the following best summarizes the central theme of the passage?