[mdlug-discuss] [mdlug] Automotive technical info wanted (only slightly off topic)

[Ingles, Raymond]

> From: allen

> Matching the base electrical generation capacity of the US with solar
> cells at their peak power production yields area requirements that are
> in the tens of thousands of square miles.

 Stick 'em in space:

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_power_satellite

 And use nuclear rockets to get thousands of tons of equipment to space
cheaply (note: non-radioactive exhaust):

 http://www.nuclearspace.com/a_liberty_ship.htm

 (The good tech stuff starts ~section 6.)

 And with launch techniques like that, we can start doing bigger things
in space (like space-based industry and manufacturing). Maybe some
space-based Orions (no fallout onto Earth) or even this little gem:

 http://www.npl.washington.edu/AV/altvw56.html

 Note that the space-based solar power generators don't *have* to be
photovoltaic (although those are getting more efficient all the time).
You could use mirrors to concentrate light on a 'hot spot' and use
steam or whatever.

 Sincerely,

 Ray Ingles                                   (313) 227-2317
 
 "Computers let you make more mistakes faster than any other
 invention in human history, with the possible exception of
        handguns and tequila." - Mitch Radcliffe

The contents of this e-mail are intended for the named addressee only. It contains information that may be confidential. Unless you are the named addressee or an authorized designee, you may not copy or use it, or disclose it to anyone else. If you received it in error please notify us immediately and then destroy it.