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khendron t1_ixze2zi wrote

As much as a love the idea of a space elevator, we are nowhere close to making this happen. Even if we had strong enough materials, the logistics of constructing something that is 37,000 km in length (longer, actually) is way beyond our current capabilities.

And even if we had one built, the cost to maintain it would be an economic no go. Add to that the difficulty of designing a vehicle that can climb a 37,000 km structure in a reasonable amount of time while sustaining a liveable environment. Not to mention the danger posed by space junk, and every single satellite orbiting below geosynchronous orbit.

In other words, even if a space elevator was theoretically within our means, the practical challenges would be out of this world (pun intended).

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hoehater t1_iy08w16 wrote

Beyond current capabilities? That’s one of the most daft things I’ve read in this thread.

If the materials we needed existed in sufficient quantities building such a structure would be relatively easy. We have factories that pump out literally BILLIONS OF MILES of fiber, rope, wire, pipes, tubing, etc.. 24x7 every single day.

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