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Space Elevator vs Wildlife

An anonymous reader writes "The longest test yet of the technology that might one day lead to space elevators has revealed some unusual problems. From the article: "There were several unexpected encounters with wildlife. More than a dozen insect egg colonies had been laid on the tether and curious bats flew around the balloons, apparently attracted by the sound made by the tether's vibrations. Late in the test, swallows were also seen swooping down on the balloons, possibly to sip the morning dew on their surfaces." Maybe all the critters just want to go to space too."

2 of 307 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Other issues and possible resolution by elrous0 · · Score: 0, Flamebait
    Once it gets out into space, wouldn't the long carbon tether become charged?

    Once people see what it would cost to build it, you can bet it will become POLITICALLY charged.

    -Eric

    --
    SJW: Someone who has run out of real oppression, and has to fake it.
  2. am i the only person by acroyear · · Score: 0, Flamebait

    who thinks the whole "space elevator" concept is just downright STUPID?

    --
    "But remember, most lynch mobs aren't this nice." (H.Simpson)
    -- Joe