Getting to Space on a Thread...Space Elevator as Alternative Access to Space
Abstract
The space elevator is a conceptual system in which a tether is used to lift cargo and personnel into space. This tether would reach from the surface of the Earth to a point some 62,000 miles into orbit. Vehicles traveling on this tether would be able to cheaply move heavy loads into orbit. From there, the cargo could be positioned in any way, with the major destination being geosynchronous orbit 22,240 miles up. The new technology that makes the space elevator possible is the carbon nanotube, a material that is theoretically 100 or more times stronger and 10 times lighter than steel. The U.S. Air Force, as the DoD Executive Agent for Space, can lead the United States in developing and deploying this alternate means of accessing space in support of DoD missions. In doing so, the U.S. Air Force will be better able to meet its current needs for satellites in orbit and rapid and economical replenishment. The space elevator would allow current missions to expand and new missions to be tackled thanks to its low cost and heavy lift capability. The elevator could be built in 10 to 15 years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA497557
Entities
People
- Jason R. Kent
Organizations
- Air War College