[ExI] Skylon as first stage.

[Eugen Leitl]

On Wed, Apr 20, 2011 at 09:47:38AM -0600, Kelly Anderson wrote:

> How much of the material necessary to create solar power satellites is
> easily obtainable from the moon?

There are multiple ISRU projects under way:

http://www.cam.uh.edu/SpaRC/ISRU%202p%20v1%20022007.pdf

http://www.highfrontier.org/Archive/Jt/s5.05b.Ignatiev%20Moon%20Base%20Conf%2010-05.pdf

etc.
 
> Also, the rocket that runs from a laser based on the ground... could
> that work from the moon just as well? What would the propellant be?

On the Moon, you can use linear motor/magnetic levitation launches.
http://www.physorg.com/news91272157.html

You ideally start at one of the poles, creating annular structures
to make use of 24/7/365 insolation, and then progressively working yourself
towards the equator, building high-voltage transmission to provide
power to the night side to avoid shutting down for two weeks.

> Since there are no airplanes on the moon, it seems like a bit
> safer/easier place for that system.

The whole idea is to tap extraterrestrial materials and energy
sources to escape the limits of a crowded planet and a vulnerable
biosphere.
 
> I assume the water from the moon topic has been done here.
> http://www.ted.com/talks/bill_stone_explores_the_earth_and_space.html

You don't need much water for ISRU producing materials and launch
facilities.

-- 
Eugen* Leitl <a href="http://leitl.org">leitl</a> http://leitl.org
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