How to contain an atmosphere in space?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of containing an atmosphere in space without gravity, specifically through the use of magnetic or plasma fields. Participants explore theoretical concepts and potential applications, including the implications for living organisms in such environments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose using a plasma magnetic field to contain an atmosphere in space, questioning its practicality and potential applications.
  • One participant suggests charging the air to contain it electromagnetically, expressing enthusiasm for the idea.
  • Concerns are raised about the disruption of the magnetic field when a spaceship enters or exits, with speculation that some air would escape during this process.
  • Another participant mentions the concept of a "magnetic bottle" and argues that the solution may not be practical, citing potential issues with plant growth and health hazards due to ozone and escaping molecules.
  • There is a reference to the "plasma window" as a related concept, indicating interest in existing technologies.
  • One participant highlights the disruptive effect of solar wind on the proposed containment method, suggesting that if the technology can handle solar wind, it may also manage spacecraft interactions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of curiosity and skepticism regarding the practicality of containing an atmosphere in space. There are competing views on the feasibility of the proposed methods, and the discussion remains unresolved with no consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on specific technological capabilities, assumptions about the behavior of charged air, and the unresolved implications of solar wind on the proposed containment methods.

Frost Dragon
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Ok this is an interesting idea I had today. Would it be possible and how to contain an atmosphere in space without gravity. Like some sort of plasma magnetic field. Not sure there is a real practical use for Themis other then studying asteroids without space suits.
 
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You could put a charge on the air and contain it electromagnetically - yes. That would be fun right!
 
So if there was a spaceship going in and out of the field would there be a disruption in the field? I imagine some air would get out on leaving.

Imagine placing plants and animals in these spheres. There could be lots of fun and interesting things.
 
Its not a practical solution... look up "magnetic bottle".
A craft going in and out would be hugely disruptive... perhaps have it enter or leave through the coils.
Plants woiud probably not grow well, and a field big enough to enclose an asteroid could be dangerous to health... the air would constantly smell of ozone and recombining molecules would become neutral and escape. The remaining charged air would never be still.
 
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Simon Bridge said:
A craft going in and out would be hugely disruptive... perhaps have it enter or leave through the coils.

not to mention the very disruptive Solar Wind traveling at speeds of anything between 300 - 2000 km/sec
That wind is going to have a strong dispersive effectDave
 
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Good point: if the tech can cope with the solar wind than it can probably cope with traversing spacecraft .
 

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