I think you're trying to imply this is bad, but for a happier angle on it, let's add to the list of things we're using up: time. We have a giant sun that's only going to be here once. Don't waste the finite time that it's given us for existence, advancement, building, providing for our descendants, playing, consuming the finite resources :)

> We might need it in the future.

Or we might discover an unlimited source of it. Unlikely? sure. But the problem with "what if" is that it's just too vague with the assumptions to add clarity, when we can't predict the repercussions of the even flap of a butterfly's wings (to borrow the expression).

The stratosphere is quite a ways from space. Also what is the point you're trying to make? I don't think anyone on either side of the argument is very concerned with a one time world record attempt from 2012 when talking about helium conservation in 2019.

Not every finite resource has to be used toward the advancement of civilization or for some greater cause.

Also, lots of things can have indirect positive effects. I know lots of people got interested in space and other cool things as a result of that jump.

I think sometimes it's good for humans to do a thing just to see if they can.