7.10.2019
This illustration by artist Pat Rawling shows the concept of a space elevator as viewed from the geostationary transfer station looking down the length of the elevator towards the Earth.NASA/MSFC
- A space elevator on Earth or the moon could make space travel and cargo transport easier, cheaper, and more sustainable.
- Companies in China and Japan hope to build such an elevator by 2045 and 2050, respectively. Japanese researchers have even tested miniature prototypes in space.
- Experts say a space elevator could be possible with current technology, especially if we were to build it on the moon. A lunar elevator would not have to contend with the Earth's gravitational force or space debris.
- There are still many details to iron out, though, including how to build such a monumental structure.
- Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.
A growing number of scientists and space-technology enthusiasts are looking into ways to construct a huge elevator, either on Earth or the moon, that could transport cargo to and from space.
In a study published in September, which has not been peer reviewed, two graduate students proposed a version of a space elevator that would stretch from the moon to Earth's satellite-level orbit. They said the structure could be built with current technology.
"They're right, and we were right first, that the lunar elevator is feasible technology," Michael Laine, president of space-elevator development company LiftPort Group, told Business Insider.
Other advocates of space elevators have argued for years that building such a structure is feasible with current technology and could open up new frontiers of space exploration.
Here's how a space elevator would work.
Quelle: BUSINESS INSIDER