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Space Elevators Face Wobble Problem

NewScientist is reporting that while the strength of the tether has long been considered the main problem in building a space elevator, a new study suggests that a dangerous wobbling problem may also be a serious obstacle. "Previous studies have noted that gravitational tugs from the Moon and Sun, as well as pressure from gusts of solar wind, would shake the tether. That could potentially make it veer into space traffic, including satellites and bits of space debris. A collision could cut the tether and wreck the space elevator."

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  1. I has the solution! by Rosy+At+Random · · Score: 0, Offtopic

    Well, maybe not. In fact, I didn't even RTFA. But never mind about that.

    OK, so here's an idea. I haven't thought it through in even the slightest way, so it's bound to work.

    Rather than have just a single tether straight up, have 3 or 4 arranged regularly. Let them connect at terminus. At the terminus, for no good reason at all, have spoke stations rotating vertically around the hub.

    --
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