Lunar Space Elevator: Is a Rocketless Trip Possible?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of a lunar space elevator that operates without rockets or chemical propellants. Participants highlight the challenges of anchoring the elevator on Earth due to the Moon's variable position. The concept of a space elevator from the Moon to a satellite is noted as simpler than one from Earth to a geostationary satellite, primarily due to material constraints. The implications of the Earth's rotation on the speed of the elevator's tip are also examined, emphasizing the complexities involved in such a system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of space elevator concepts and mechanics
  • Knowledge of orbital dynamics and geostationary satellites
  • Familiarity with materials science related to tensile strength
  • Basic principles of rotational motion and its effects on structures
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the engineering challenges of space elevators using carbon nanotubes
  • Study the dynamics of lunar orbits and their impact on tether systems
  • Explore the concept of geostationary satellites and their applications
  • Investigate the effects of Earth's rotation on tethered structures
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, physicists, and space exploration enthusiasts interested in advanced transportation systems and the theoretical frameworks surrounding space elevators.

BosonJaw
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Lunar space elevator...

Based on my limited understanding of the idea.

If this system were to omit a rocket or chemical propellant power plant and is not an unbound free traveling vehicle, I would infer, given the distance of the journey the travel time may venture into the realm of the preposterous... Am I wrong?
 
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A space elevator directly to the moon has the disadvantage that the moon isn't always over the same place on Earth making it rather tricky to anchor the bottom of the cable.

A space elavator from the Earth to a geostationary satelite is theoretically quite simple, although a bit of a materials challenge. A simialir elevator from the moons surface to a satelite around the moon is even easier. Going between the two statiosn is pretty easy,
 
How fast the Moon?

Just supposing you dropped a space elevator from the Moon to the Earth. The bottom doesn't have to be attached to the Earth, the bottom could just, well, sort of dangle there over the surface of the Earth.

If you did do that, how fast would the dangling tip of the Lunar S.E. move over the surface of the Earth?
 
The Earth is rotating (at the equator ) at around 900mph (40,000km in 24hours)
Even ignoring the motion of the moon that is going to create problems.
 

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