Redesigning O Neill cylinders

> But people don't live in oilrigs or chemical factories. If we're only
> talking about use of space resources, then we might be talking about
> structures comparable to these. But if we're talking about space
> settlements, then we're talking about places where people choose to
> live.

I guess I'm more focussed on the dynamics (the "why") by which these
space-paradises get there, rather than assuming they will be there.

> Yes, and mansions are considerably less efficient to build than simple,
> gray, rectangular cinderblock structures. Yet I observe there continues
> to be a market for mansions.

True...I guess my model is that the rationale for going into space big time
will be economic - mining & manufacturing - for quite a while, and this will
drive the types of space habitats for quite a time therefore.

> They don't have to be cheaper than any conceivable bare-bones
> alternative to have a chance. They only have to be cheap enough for the
> market to bear.

I'd buy that....its the development of that market I'm interested in.

Rgds

Alan