Do space elevators need to be on the equator?

To support the weight of a tether and payload, the object to be used as a “space anchor” must actually be in an equatorial orbit but at a greater than geostationary altitude. The whole point of a space elevator is to get a payload out of Earth’s gravity well.

Where would be the best location for a space elevator?

To reduce risks to people, a space elevator should be located on or next to an ocean and away from any large population centers. Environmental Impact – Any elevator site will need major infrastructure improvements constructed around it and thus could not be placed in an environmentally or ecologically sensitive area.

Would a space elevator be possible?

A space elevator is possible with today’s technology, researchers say (we just need to dangle it off the moon) Space elevators would dramatically reduce the cost of reaching space but have never been technologically feasible.

Is a space elevator possible on the moon?

According to a study published in 2019, a lunar elevator could be the answer. A cable anchored to the lunar surface would stretch most of the 400,000km (250,000 miles) home. It couldn’t be directly attached to the Earth, due to the relative motions of the two objects, but it could terminate high in Earth orbit.

How is a space elevator supported on the Earth?

The “space tower” should be supported by the Earth’s crust below it, but the crust will be flexible under the enormous load and over a long time. A space elevator with cables makes use of the centrifugal forces caused by the rotation of the earth.

What is the gravitational force on a space elevator cable?

Apparent gravitational field. A space elevator cable rotates along with the rotation of the Earth. Therefore, objects attached to the cable would experience upward centrifugal force in the direction opposing the downward gravitational force.

What are the cable requirements for a space elevator?

The cable would need to be made of a material with a high tensile strength/density ratio. For example, the Edwards space elevator design assumes a cable material with a tensile strength of at least 100 gigapascals.

Are carbon nanotubes strong enough to build an Earth space elevator?

Available materials are not strong enough to make an Earth space elevator practical. Some sources have speculated that future advances in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) could lead to a practical design. Other sources have concluded that CNTs will never be strong enough.