The Learning Channel (TLC) on cable airs a show called Junkyard Wars. Teams race against each other to build fantastic machines out of anything they can find in an old scrap heap and then accomplish some task – like chucking pumpkins at a castle or building dragsters. This British created show is a big hit – and really fun to watch. I’ve got TiVo working overtime to catch all the episodes that I missed. Of course, this means no more auto-recorded classic Dating Game episodes or PBS specials on quilting. All true.
In the spirit of the 60’s space race, I say we take the Junkyard Wars concept, increase the buget about a thousand-fold and start sending these boys into space! A couple scrappy inventors, some duct tape, and a Mars landing flag. That’s what it’s all about.
Just don’t tell OSHA.