Could we build a space elevator on the moon?

New study suggests that a lunar space elevator could be built for about $1 billion using existing technology. Since the dawn of the space era more than six decades ago, there’s been just one way to get to the moon and back: rockets.

How much does it cost to build a space elevator?

A space elevator built according to the Edwards proposal is estimated to cost $6 billion.

Can we build orbital ring?

The technology to build orbital rings is obtainable today. The popular version of a space elevator can not be built with today’s technology. When the technology for a space elevator is available then a space elevator can be integrated into the orbital rings system.

Is it possible to build a space elevator on the Moon?

The mass of the Moon is small enough that a uniform cross-section lunar space elevator could be constructed, without any taper at all.” A uniform cross-section could make it possible for a lunar space elevator to be built in a double-tether pulley configuration.

What materials are needed to build a lunar elevator?

A lunar elevator, however, could be constructed using commercially available mass-produced high-strength para-aramid fibres (such as Kevlar and M5) or ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibre. Compared to an Earth space elevator, there would be fewer geographic and political restrictions on the location of the surface connection.

What is a lunar space elevator or lunar spacelift?

A lunar space elevator or lunar spacelift is a proposed transportation system for moving a mechanical climbing vehicle up and down a ribbon-shaped tethered cable that is set between the surface of the Moon “at the bottom” and a docking port suspended tens of thousands of kilometers above in space at…

Should we be able to elevate humans to the Moon?

Since the dawn of the space era more than six decades ago, there’s been just one way to get to the moon and back: rockets. But a pair of graduate students say we should now be able to ferry humans and cargo between Earth and our natural satellite via a sort of high-tech elevator.