[erasmuse]

We want to explore the solar system... and there are these marvellous parcels of kinetic energy and expensive rare earth elements whizzing around the place. With built-in radiation shielding, too.

OK, at least one of the bigguns is pointing at Earth. But, you know what they say, every existential threat is an opportunity in disguise! In this case, potentially unlimited funding for the study and development of asteroid harnessing technology. That's before you sell the metals.