All our eggs in one basket

Scientists call for a Lunar Ark that would contain history and culture as well as biological specimens required for life. This would be used in case of catastrophe.

"In the event of a global catastrophe, the ARC facilities will be prepared to reintroduce lost technology, art, history, crops, livestock, and, if necessary, even human beings to the Earth," Shapiro said.

ARC hopes to finance the planned moon outpost into a lunar ark of recovery in part through donations from billionaire philanthropists.

"The establishment of an ARC sanctuary would for the first time provide a compelling purpose for the colonization of space."

Put one on the moon, one on Mars and one on the way to the stars.