Yeah, I dug up Ligon's ISDC presentation for a friend yesterday and skimmed through it again. If Polywell works and is spaceworthy and his numbers on cost per kilo are anywhere close to correct...
I mean, those are almost space elevator numbers. We're talking about being able to establish permanent bases all over the Solar System -- maybe even tourism.
Altho he doesn't mention it in the post, I'm sure that part of my old friend's pleasure over the Navy funding this research is that he himself is a Nuke Navy veteran.
There are a few things that come along that utterly changes life for humans as previous generations never dreamed. To mane a few, electricity, the automobile, wireless telecommunications (sans smoke) and others.
My training is in fission reactors, but I wouldn't mind switching gears, especially it can be proven safe and economical. I have worries about cost of scale, but I'm willing to let the data speak for itself.
You'd have a lot of re-training, from what I understand. First, you'd have to go back and learn vacuum-tube physics, which is pretty esoteric these days.
One of Bussard's main complaints is that it's so hard to find anyone who knows this stuff who's not in their 70s or 80s.
You still need fuel for cars, trucks, and aircraft.
9.3.2007 7:00pm
Commenting on Dean's World is a privilege, not a right. Dean is your host, you are his guest, and you should behave in that fashion. Dean is not your babysitter, nor is he your punching bag. Please remember this. In general, you are free to disagree with anyone on any subject you wish, but abusive behavior will not be tolerated.
Of course we all lose our tempers now and then. Dean freely admits to being imperfect in this regard, which is why regulars to this establishment will generally be cut more slack than people who we don't know very well.
Still: behave like an adult, or go find somewhere else to play. Thanks.
Exciting days to be sure!
It looks like civilization may continue for another thousand years.
BTW after power plants on Earth, space.
I mean, those are almost space elevator numbers. We're talking about being able to establish permanent bases all over the Solar System -- maybe even tourism.
It would be so uber-cool if so I can't even express it.
This may just be the next to do so.
Don't want my hopes to be dashed. :-\
You'd have a lot of re-training, from what I understand. First, you'd have to go back and learn vacuum-tube physics, which is pretty esoteric these days.
One of Bussard's main complaints is that it's so hard to find anyone who knows this stuff who's not in their 70s or 80s.
Of course we all lose our tempers now and then. Dean freely admits to being imperfect in this regard, which is why regulars to this establishment will generally be cut more slack than people who we don't know very well.
Still: behave like an adult, or go find somewhere else to play. Thanks.