Is a space elevator physically possible?

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.

How wide would a space elevator be?

Imagine a ribbon roughly one hundred million times as long as it is wide. If it were a meter long, it would be 10 nanometers wide, or just a few times thicker than a DNA double helix.

Is it possible to build a space elevator on Earth?

The cable thickness is adjusted based on tension, it has its maximum at a geostationary orbit and the minimum on the ground. 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.

What is the main technical problem with space elevator cables?

Cable section. Historically, the main technical problem has been considered the ability of the cable to hold up, with tension, the weight of itself below any given point. The greatest tension on a space elevator cable is at the point of geostationary orbit, 35,786 km (22,236 mi) above the Earth’s equator.

What are the different types of space elevator?

There are a variety of space elevator designs proposed for many planetary bodies. Almost every design includes a base station, a cable, climbers, and a counterweight. For an Earth Space Elevator the Earth’s rotation creates upward centrifugal force on the counterweight.

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.