Honda Global | Honda R&D Co., Ltd., a research and development subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., today conducted a launch and landing test of an experimental reusable rocket*1 (6.3 m in length, 85 cm in diameter, 900 kg dry weight/1,312 kg wet weight) developed independently by Honda. The test was completed successfully, the first time Honda landed a rocket after reaching an altitude of nearly 300 meters.
While what you said is true,
i guess that most people’s motivation is rather the economic benefits. Think of it this way:
The 1960s space race created jobs all across the US and inspired a generation of scientists.
Mars settlement could do the same, but bigger. At least that’s the idea.