But while the real space elevator is 12 years away, I was wondering if it were possible to build one inside Google Earth. Fortunately, someone already did.
(Google Earth Blog) Back in January I created a simplistic 3D model of a space elevator for a 3D model demonstration. Two days ago, someone at the Google Earth Community named 'Gerardo64' posted a well-written summary of what the space elevator concept is all about, and a much more sophisticated 3D model of a space elevator. You can download the 3D space elevator model for Google Earth here. This model is created with a base of the elevator on a floating platform in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
Here are some screen shots via Google Earth below:
The basic layout of a future space station hovering around the space elevator. Goods can be launched up to the station and metals/minerals from asteroids can be brought down (you can see a glimpse of this station from the previous post).
Image of a lifter traveling up the tether via a powerful laser beam. For an entertaining explanation (video wise, not musically wise) see this previous post.
The port in the middle of the ocean where goods will be sent in order to be launched towards the stars.
Liftport seems to be already aware of this within Google Earth (as Brian has commented on the post) although I think it would be cool if someone in their IT department was able to go back give it and put a little LiftPort symbol on there). ;-)
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Liftport seems to be already aware of this within Google Earth (as Brian has commented on the post) although I think it would be cool if someone in their IT department was able to go back give it and put a little LiftPort symbol on there)
ReplyDeleteDoesn't have to be me - anyone can download our logo and slap it on the lifter and base station.