Space Elevator
Space elevators have been a scientific goal for several years. Scientists and astronauts are now moving closer to the idea of an elevator leading to space, and have even offered prizes for breakthroughs or designs of potential models. Now there are several competing models, including one from Japan. A space elevator would offer access to a satellite docking station and would require cables that are 180 times stronger than steel.1
Fast Facts
- First envisioned by Arthur C. Clarke's The Fountains of Paradise in 19791
- Cables would need to be approximately 22,000 miles long1
- Cables would need to be light, strong and able to withstand items in the atmosphere1
- Could carry people, generators, or radioactive waste1
- Would use 100 times less energy than a space shuttle1
Related Pages on Mahalo
NASA | Space Shuttle | Japan
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