October 21, 2015: Space Elevator & EMPs - Dr. William Forstchen
The first half explores Forstchen's novel Pillar to the Sky about constructing a space elevator using carbon nanotube technology. Forstchen explains how a thread dropped from geosynchronous orbit to the equator could reduce launch costs from 100,000 dollars per pound to just 10, enabling massive solar energy collection in space and opening a practical pathway to Mars. He and Art discuss engineering challenges including space debris and the potential to permanently solve the global energy crisis.
The conversation shifts to Forstchen's One Second After about electromagnetic pulse attacks. He warns that a small fission weapon detonated above the atmosphere could destroy the entire U.S. power grid, with congressional estimates projecting 90 percent casualties within a year. The broadcast is interrupted when shots are fired near Art's studio, adding real tension to a sobering discussion of existential threats.
Key Moments
Space elevator as energy infrastructure: Forstchen explains that his space-elevator concept is about harvesting solar energy in space, not just getting into orbit.
From $100,000 to $10 a pound: Forstchen says geosynchronous delivery can cost $100,000 per pound, but a space elevator could drop it to $10.
First wire becomes a railroad: Forstchen compares the first space-elevator wire to the first transcontinental railroad: expensive at first, transformative afterward.
Cargo-ship EMP launch: Forstchen warns that a hostile actor would not need an ICBM if a Scud-like missile could be launched vertically from a ship.
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