Space elevator

A space elevator, also known as a space bridge or star ladder, is a hypothetical fixed structure from the Earth's surface into space for carrying payloads. Plausible techniques for building a space elevator include beanstalks, space fountains and even very tall compressive structures, similar to those used for aerial masts. A space fountain would use particles fired up from the ground to form a dynamic, quasi-compressive structure. However, space fountains and tall compressive structures, whilst possibly reaching the agreed altitude for space (100 km), are unlikely to reach geostationary orbit. Due to the difference between sub-orbital and orbital spaceflights, additional rockets or other means of propulsion would be necessary to achieve orbital speed.

Related Topics:
Space fountain - Altitude for space - Difference between sub-orbital and orbital spaceflights

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A beanstalk (see Jack and the Beanstalk), on the other hand, is an orbital space elevator that uses a cable that hangs down to the surface from synchronous orbit. It is also called a geosynchronous orbital tether, and is one kind of skyhook. A beanstalk attached to the Earth could eventually permit delivery of great quantities of cargo and people to orbit, and at costs only a fraction of those associated with current means.

Related Topics:
Jack and the Beanstalk - Tether - Skyhook - Earth

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Construction would be a vast project: a beanstalk would have to be built of a material that could endure tremendous stress while also being light-weight, cost-effective, and manufacturable. Today's materials technology does not quite meet these requirements. A considerable number of other novel engineering problems would also have to be solved to make a space elevator practical. Not all problems regarding feasibility have yet been addressed. Nevertheless, optimists say that the necessary technology could be developed by 2008 http://liftport.com/research2.php and the first space elevator could be operational by 2018

Related Topics:
Material - Stress - Technology - 2008 - 2018

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http://www.space.com/businesstechnology/technology/space_elevator_020327-1.html

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http://www.isr.us/research_es_se.asp.

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