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- Yay!
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Good afternoon class!In today's physics class, we're going to be talking about the space elevator.
- Welcome to Mr. Ganji's Physics Class!
- Sir! My group found that a space elevator would be much more practical for our environment and that it would save us millions of dollars in the future.
- That's right Jimmy! Even thought rocket technology has come a long way, they still use about 85,000 gallons of fuel for each launch!
- When rockets lift off, they take advantage of momentum and newtons 3rd law which states: for every reaction there is an equal and opposite reaction. For example, if you throw a basketball to the left while on a skateboard, you will roll to the right to conserve momentum. The hot exhaust of rockets functions similarly to the basketball. Because the rocket's exhaust is aimed at the ground, when the gas molecules departing the rocket collide with the ground at high speeds, the rocket is propelled upward (opposite direction). These gas molecules are created when the engine burns gasoline. Each stage of a rocket can contain up to nine stages, each with its own engine. The first stage, for example, is in charge of taking the rocket out of the lower atmosphere. After each stage, that portion of the rocket is dropped and the second stag commences.
- As we know, rockets are impractical and incredibly expensive to build and launch. They are an environmental menace as they produce a plume of exhaust filled with materials that damage the atmosphere in dangerous ways. A big challenge that the human kind is struggling to overcome is getting all of our equipment into space and a space elevator could be the perfect solution. It cost about $7,500 to get 1 kilogram into space while it would only cost $375 with the space elevator. According to Zephyr Penoyre from the University of Cambridge in the UK, thanks to solar power it would reduce the fuel needed to reach to moon to a third of today's value. Finally, the rotation of the Earth would impart horizontal acceleration to the cabin as it travelled up the tower, and the cargo would have enough horizontal velocity at the top to maintain it in geostationary orbit without colliding with the Earth.
- I want to have a look at the criteria for a rocket to lift off before we learn about space elevators. This way, you'll have a better knowledge of the mechanics of lift-off and the forces at work.
- Fig.4: Rocket Lift Off
- Fig.1: Cartoon ofRocket Lift Off
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Now, we're going to take a look at this slide show to give us a brief idea of a space elevator.
- Fig.2: Cartoon of Space Elevator
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Upon seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris in 1895, a Russian scientist named Konstantin Tsiolkovsky came up with a concept of a spindle-shaped wire carried in geosynchronous orbit at a height of 35,786 kilometres in the sky.
- Fig.3: Space Elevator Capsule
- Building a stable and secure space elevator is difficult enough, but ensuring it is not destroyed by circling space junk and satellites is even more difficult. Most satellites and junk, according to Keith Henson, would vaporize the elevator's first six or eight feet. The problem can be solved by finding and cleaning up all of the space junk. However, because there are around 130 million pieces of debris to be cleaned up, it will not be simple. In space, a laser could be developed to destroy the debris, but it would use a lot of energy. Moving on, satellites would have be created with dodging capabilities which is not a big problem. However, the problem is that every pre-existing one would have to be retired or re-configured.
- That's right, don't forget the satellites.
- 1. The benefits of a space elevator and the need for it (Frank)2. How to eliminate/doge satellites and space debris (Mark)3. Information about materials (Sofia) 4. Alternate methods to building a space elevator (Liam)5. How to build a space elevator and components needed (Luc)
- Good, now that we have an idea on how rockets lift off and what a space elevator is, I'm going to assign you each a topic to do research on and share with the class.
- Fig.5: Satellites and Space Debris
- 30 minutes later.....
- Sir, the space elevator sounds great, but my group read that we're still years away from building one because there's no material strong enough yet!
- -Geostationary orbit-Carbon nanotubes-4 main components-More efficient-8 billion to make -Ready by 2050
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Why are we even learning about this??
- To add to your point Liam, here's another take on the original concept.
- Fig.6: Structure of Carbon Nanotubes
- Next slide sir! We want to learn more!
- Sofia, you are absolutely correct. While carbon nanotubes are known to be strong enough, currently they can only be manufactured to a length of a few inches.
- The cable in the space elevator, as we all know, must be made of an extremely strong material in order to support the weight and forces that are applied to it. The strain on the cable will approach 100,000 kN (Kg/m), according to Keith Henson, co-founder of the National Space Society. As a result, the material's strength-to-density ratio must be high. Even carbon nanotubes, according to Henson, lack the tensile strength and low density to rely on. Carbon nanotubes are a possible material because of the covalent sp2 bonds created between the individual carbon atoms.
- This alternative idea proposed by Zephyr Penoyre from the University of Cambridge is to build a high speed maglev rail track that shoots rockets into orbit. This way the rockets would save the fuel which would be used to increase their velocity. The maglev train would use superconductors to keep the train off the track. By doing so, there will be a lack of friction which then allows the rocket to reach extreme speeds!
- Mr. Ganji, I read that the space elevator is going to have 4 major components
- Fig.7: Structure of Graphene
- Regrettably, current technology prevents them from being made in lengthy lengths. The closest thing theorists have come up with is a material with two-thirds the required strength, but it's a very, very short, tiny tube. There's also graphene, which is a new material. It's a powerful carbon based material which is 200 times stronger than steel. Some physicist believe that it is strong and light enough to be used. However the reoccurring issue is that these materials cannot be produced inn lengthy lengths. Unfortunately earth’s surface generates forces that are too great for today’s materials.
- WOW!
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Carbon nanotubes are recognized for their unusual mechanical, electrical, and thermal characteristics, which make them ideal for a variety of materials applications. They are now widely regarded as the next significant breakthrough material that will enable automakers to develop lighter and stronger vehicles. Carbon fibre is currently employed in high-performance automobiles, however the carbon nanotube is 20 times stronger than carbon fibre due to its better atomic-bonded crystal structure. Finally, they are employed as fuel lines and connectors to avoid dangerous sparks and explosive occurrences, demonstrating the material's safety and strength.
- In this project you will be working with the whole class to make our own space elevator! However, instead of going thousands of kilometres into the atmosphere, we’re going to aim for a height of 2m. Materials and supplies will be provided for you by York University. We will be taking a trip down to their Keele campus to build this. Please pick up a permission form and to bring it back to me tommorow
- Project Details
- To add to your point Sofia, today, carbon nanotubes are being used in the automotive industry. This slide should provide a better understanding of the properties of this material.
- Mr. Ganji, my group ran out of time, but we started reading about space debris. Wouldn't that be a big issue for the elevator?
- Fig.8: Carbon Fiber Car
- Sir, I'm pretty sure there is a solution to that problem because my group read that if we anchor the elevator to the moon and dangle it towards Earth, it would work but we're not sure why it would.
- Unit 4: Space Elevator
- Well done class! I'm proud of all of you for the effort and dedication you guys have for this topic. Get some rest and I'll see you guys tomorrow to start brain storming ideas for our very own space elevator!
- Fig.9: Calculations of Space Elevator
- Since we lack the necessary resources to construct a space elevator on Earth, scientists have considered building one from the moon. The spaceline would pass through a region of space where terrestrial and lunar gravity cancels each other out on its way from the moon to Earth. This is significant because both gravity and the gravity gradient in this location are zero, making building operations significantly safer. As a result, gravity pushes the cable towards the planet from Earth, while gravity pulls the cable towards the lunar surface from the moon. A moon-based spaceline, however, would only orbit once a month. On the bright side, because the forces exerted are significantly less, high-strength materials are not required. Carbon polymers can support a wire from the moon to geosynchronous orbit with ease. However, the greater the strength, the more of a ratio you'll be able to obtain for dragging goods about on the moon.
- The next day at Armstrong Secondary School
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- That's true! There are alternate concepts of the space elevator...
- Great!
- Fig.10: Maglev Train to Space Concept
- 2: Perfect! Then let's not waste time. Before we board the bus, I'd like to start brainstorming our ideas. One by one, I'd like you guys to come and write a point on the chalk board.
- 1: Good morning everybody! How's everybody feeling?
- Tired!
- To do list: -Brainstorm Ideas-Board bus and go to York University-Draw a sketch-Go to the lab and start building
- Pretty good!
- Please put your signed permission forms on my desk when you walk in
- Good!
- Wobble created by climbers-Coriolis force would force climbers and cable in the opposite direction of the Earth's rotation.-Pulls elevator away from its vertical position, making it oscillate back and forth like a pendulum
- Things to account for
- Dangerous vibrations-The cable will be shaken by gravitational forces from the Moon and Sun, as well as pressure from solar wind gusts.-Vibrational energy may be greater than the cable's tolerance
- Central structure should be as light as possible -Limits the stress due to its own weight-Strong enough at the safe time to survive under incredible forces
- BOOO!
- Homework: Research how to build a space elevator and brain storm any ideas as well Due:January 23rd, 2022
- I'm glad you said that Henry. Lucky for you guys, we're going to have a project where we build our own space elevator!
- Things to account for
- Smallest damages will endanger the integrity of the entire structure-Fallout on regions below the space elevator would be catastrophic-Material must be strong a light to prevent this
- Fig.11: Example of Space Elevator Counterweight
- Structure relies on tension force between the ground and counterweight -Counterweight is deployed beyond geostationary orbit-Cable remains tense due to centrifugal effect
- Construction Ideas:
- Propulsion/Inner Shaft-These cylindrical bits are joined and stored in a circular form under the elevator. When these pieces are fastened in place, they are stacked vertically to produce a shaft that drives the bottom component upward
- Bye Sir! Have a good day!
- Telescopic Exo Shell-This semi hollow tower is constructed from super-lightweight alloys and is coated in a low-drag shield. It is supported by a cable structure with rails. The hydraulics system inside the shaft prides upwards lift to the system
- Cable SupportThis cable support system is made up of 132 smart wheels mounted on a rail. They will be in charge of supporting the tower and ensuring its stability. They'll be made of light Kevlar and will be connected every 5 centimetres
- Construction Ideas:
- Propulsion/Inner Shaft-These cylindrical bits are joined and stored in a circular form under the elevator. When these pieces are fastened in place, they are stacked vertically to produce a shaft that drives the bottom component upward
- Telescopic Exo Shell-This semi hollow tower is constructed from super-lightweight alloys and is coated in a low-drag shield. It is supported by a cable structure with rails. The hydraulics system inside the shaft prides upwards lift to the system
- Remember to include the carbon nanotube cable.
- Good work class. Let's start packing up and go to the front of the school. The busses should be here in 5 minutes.
- Fig.12:Drawing of Bottom Half of Space Elevator
- Fig.13: Drawing of Top Half of Space Elevator
- Fig.14: Bottom of Space Elevator Reference Picture
- Reference picture:
- Fig.15: Top of Space Elevator Reference Picture
- Reference picture:
- Stay in a single file line please! Our class will be sitting in the front two rows.
- Haha sir, we are the professionals!
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- Looks great everybody! Hopefully one day we can have a field trip to see the space elevator when it's fully built.
- Guys, please remember that we will be in a professional setting which means your behaviour must be professional as well.
- Will do sir!
- Thanks so much for the opportunity!
- That's all for today guys, thanks for visiting and hopefully we can see you guys again for your next physics project.
- Hi guys! Welcome to Lassonde School of Engineering at York University. This is my assistant, Leo. We're so excited to have you guys here!
- Thank you professor and Leo for providing us with the materials and knowledge to build our own mini space elevator!
- Thank you!
- Hi everyone!
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- I hope you all had fun today and learned something new. I know I did for sure!
- Mr. Ganji has informed me that you guys have already done your research. All we have to do is draw a sketch and build a model of the space elevator using straws and tape. Group on the left, we're going to be sketching and building the lower half. Group on the right, you will be drawing and building the upper half with Leo and your teacher!
- Fig.14: Top of Space Elevator Concept
- The sketches are looking great! Let's get our materials and get to work!
- Unit 5: ???
- That's all for this unit class! Hope you guys learned a thing or two about space elevators and the future of our world!
- Fig.15: Structure of Carbon Nanotube
- Don't forget to draw a little cube to represent the counterweight.
- Fig.1: Cartoon of Rocket Lift Off : https://i.pinimg.com/originals/c1/9a/92/c19a92f1b0064.jpgFig.2: Cartoon of Space Elevator : https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.8f6-nB0BjG4AcLE27cMlagHaFS?pid=ImgDet&rs=1Fig.3: Space Elevator Capsule : https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.a0Pwjs4qUaz3AA2CdLvBHQHaFP?pid=ImgDet&rs=1Fig.4: Rocket Lift Off : https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-cd53fc81ac1d0dd816b6673297acaafcFig.5: Satellites and Space Debris : https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-GIBRNfzjrRCyVNlH8KVPEMFig.6: Structure of Carbon Nanotube : https://cdn.britannica.com/29/193229-050-ACB6E78D/Illustration-carbon-nanotube.jpgFig.7: Structure of Graphene : https://miro.medium.com/max/1400/1*CIlbsbAe1H4e918nrv2Zhw.pngFig.8: Carbon Fiber Car : https://img.directindustry.com/images_di/projects/images-s-made-from-carbon-nanotubes-horizon-5842-8868478.jpgFig.9: Calculations of Space Elevator : https://cdn.technologyreview.com/i/images/spaceline-diagram.png?sw=700&cx=0&cy=0&cw=567&ch=1341Fig.10: Maglev Train to Space Concept : https://inteng-storage.s3.amazonaws.com/img/iea/ZKwJDy05GM/sizes/star-tram_resize_md.jpgFig.11: Example of Space Elevator Counterweight : https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.Oj0oISlBCepI9yv9g3CUegHaDt?pid=ImgDet&rs=1Fig.12: Drawing of Bottom Half of Space Elevator : https://upload.wikedia.org/wikipedia/commonscted_for_scale%2BCM%2Betc.svg/260px-SpaceFig.13: Drawing of Top Half of Space Elevator : https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/cocted_for_scale%2BCM%2Betc.svg/260px-SpaceFig.15: Top of Space Elevator Reference Picture : https://hacm/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/elevator.jpgFig.14: Bottom of Space Elevator Reference Picture : https://static.wikia.n?cb=20170609153706Fig.16: Top of Space Elevator Concept : https://cosmosmagazine.com/02/180606-elevator-full.jpgFig.17: Structure of Carbon Nanotube : https://5.imimg.com/data5/carbon-nanotube-500x500.jpg
- We'll be using the pictures on the whiteboard as a guide. Remember the base must be strong enough to support the weight of the elevator.
- Straw
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- Straw
- Good job guys! The elevator and the counterweight is looking awesome. Let's put it together now!
- Figures Works Cited*Links are available at the bottom of Annotated Bibliography Document*
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- Best field trip ever!
- I had a lot of fun!
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