Most of the successful "government research" projects were to make money or engage in war better. Those sailing expeditions were to gain resources (make money)

Most of the successful "government research" projects were to make money or engage in war better. Those sailing expeditions were to gain resources (make money) or conquer new lands (make money). The atomic bomb and space programs were built for military ends. The internet was built for military resiliency. GPS was for targeting and tracking. Basic research does require a long term view.. but I would suggest that even government doesn't have that as evidenced by the financial messes they've caused because the bills don't have to be paid until "later."