How close to the equator does a space elevator need to be?

How close to the equator does a space elevator need to be?

Edwards: The elevator can be placed anywhere within 20 degrees of the equator due to the dynamics, but the performance is best at the equator. As you get off the equator, the ribbon goes up at an angle and eventually is lying close to the ground and is unusable.

Could we build a space elevator?

A space elevator is possible with today’s technology, researchers say (we just need to dangle it off the moon) Space elevators would dramatically reduce the cost of reaching space but have never been technologically feasible.

Can you build a space elevator?

Is it possible to build a building into space?

There’s no set line between Earth and space. But most scientists agree that space starts somewhere between 80 and 100 kilometers (50 and 62 miles) above Earth’s surface. Building a skinny tower that tall isn’t possible.

Why are space elevators not built at the North Pole?

A space elevator with cables makes use of the centrifugal forces caused by the rotation of the earth. These forces’ vertical component is highest at the equator, while it is absent at the poles. If you did build a tower at the north pole, a payload would only gain height but no speed.

How would a space elevator work at the equator?

From a space elevator at the equator, a payload could be lifted to the height of a geostationary orbit. If released, the payload would stay in orbit because the necessary height and speed for an orbit are met. Share Improve this answer Follow edited Apr 2 ’19 at 9:34

What would happen if you released a payload from a space elevator?

If released, it would fall down instantly. From a space elevator at the equator, a payload could be lifted to the height of a geostationary orbit. If released, the payload would stay in orbit because the necessary height and speed for an orbit are met.

Is it possible to build a space elevator on Earth?

The cable thickness is adjusted based on tension, it has its maximum at a geostationary orbit and the minimum on the ground. Available materials are not strong enough to make an Earth space elevator practical. Some sources have speculated that future advances in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) could lead to a practical design.