Space Elevator

Dr. Jordin Kare returned to The Space Show to update us on laser launch. Laser launch, as we learned from Dr. Kare, is making progress and the price for components is coming down. In this program, we learned the basics and the theory behind laser launch, we discussed many of its applications from LEO uses, to launching nuclear waste to deep space, to space solar power, and to playing a significant role in the VSE in conjunction with on orbit construction. We discussed the economics of laser launch and how it supports the space elevator.

Eric Westling was the guest for this Space Show program. One field of expertise for Mr. Westling is the space elevator and we began the interview with a comprehensive discussion on the subject. This discussion took us into economics and from there to a discussion about our energy problems, how the space elevator might help resolve them, other possibilities including helium, hydrogen, SPS, etc. We discussed Eric's economic axioms and interested listeners can get a copy of them by sending an email to me.

Dr. Brad Edwards returned to The Space Show to discuss new developments and the progress with the space elevator. Dr. Edwards brought us up to date on the improvements being made with the carbon fibers for the ribbon, he answered technical questions as to how the elevator would work and for what markets and projects it was best suited for once it becomes reality. We talked about the cost, its financing, and the time table to develop and get an operational space elevator. Dr. Edwards mentioned the climber competition which is going to be held in Mtn. View, CA from Sept. 30 - Oct. 2, 2005.