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."

Comments

Re:Then why not a space escalator?

[Ethanol-fueled]

I can swim from England to France.

Why don't you propose building a gondola lift between the US and England? The rest of us, who live in the real word, will fly there. Rocketships and space-planes aren't the most effecient forms of space travel but, come on...a fucking space elevator? Sheesh.