I think from a technological progression point of view, it's generally wise to adjust the technology to the domain rather than try to adjust the domain to the t

I think from a technological progression point of view, it's generally wise to adjust the technology to the domain rather than try to adjust the domain to the technology. For instance what SpaceX is trying to do with retropulsive landings. If they can master this in a variety of conditions then the technology can be adapted outwards to no end. On the other hand, if you focus exclusively on landing back on Earth then landing on another planet is suddenly a huge ordeal. So in this domain, if we master the car driving without too many cues, then a self driving vehicle ought be able to drive in Timbuktu as well as LA, which I think is much more desirable - even if it's vastly more challenging.