Why does it have to be one or the other - why not both.

Money is not an entity in itself but a representation of people's labour and assets.

If there are those, (country's and individuals), who want to use their time and resources in the exploration of space, the maritime environment or just climb mountains who are we to say they shouldn't be allowed to do so.  As for benefits then let's face it there are many people, possibly the majority, who have never done anything to make life on Earth better for others.