[UnpossibleJim]

I guess it would depend on the ship... Though I am reading Rendezvous With Rama right now (my first time), which has completely changed my imagining of space ships. So much of sci-fi owes so much to Artur C. Clarke. I knew, but I didn't realize until I read more and more =/

[TedDoesntTalk]

> guess it would depend on the ship

After 72 generations on a ship, it’s possible the occupants won’t even know they are on a ship (fictionalized by Brian Aldiss in the excellent book “Non-Stop”).

And if they know they’re on a ship, why would they leave? After all, it is home and will have been for ages.

[Ekaros]

Also if you can build a space habitat that can support 72 generations. Why ship it away anyway? That is bit nasty move to those eventual descendants. Instead put it orbit somewhere in system. Where you have at least chance to maintain or rescue the people. And save a lot on propulsion. Just build enough of them house people you need.

I never understood the whole colonization for sake of colonization. In past it was either glory or better living conditions. And you will have much better living conditions if you don't send it to empty space on unknown risky voyage...