Again I am reminded of Star Trek.

In any case, the main problem here is fuel. No viable space fuel exists yet to propel a craft of signifigant size past the moon- which is not a feasible place to support life. There are plenty of scientists researching new fuels, escpecially at Nasa. We can put a probe past the limits of out solar system, but they are small and destined for a one-way trip. Until a fuel is developed, the entire concept is difficult.

Did you know that one of George Bush's personnal goals was to assist NASA in establishing a "moon base", through which further space exploration would be possible?