5 Reasons Going To Mars is a

Robert Smith robert@... [spacesettlers] wrote:

> Have you ever looked at launcher specs and done drawings of craft that
> would fit? G-Lab could use some brainstorming and I'd love to see what
> you envision.

Well if we're brainstorming, I'd suggest something built within a
Bigelow station. So instead of having to design, validate, & build an
entire (albeit fun-sized) space station you just buy one off the
shelf, and stick your equipment inside. I fully expect to see Bigelow
stations on orbit before we see any major players moving on variable-G
research.

The challenge will be making centrifuges that can take full advantage of
the inflated module's diameter. Some assembly might be required. But
now we're just talking about a piece of lab equipment -- you could
fabricate, assemble, and test on the ground as many times as necessary
to get something smooth and safe, before packing it into a Bigelow
station and launching it to orbit.

- Joe