Construction of space elevators

From October 19 to October 21, about 20 groups of scientists from around the world will gather in Salt Lake City, USA to join two challenges in the " Centennial Challenge " related to manufacturing " elevator space ".

The first challenge is based on technology development called " Beam Power Challenge ". Contestants will build a robot capable of climbing a column with a minimum speed of 2m / sec. Energy will be provided by a laser directed from the ground onto a sensor installed in the robot.

The second challenge, called " Tether Challenge, " aims to develop a light and strong rope. Exam teams will build a wire that is 50% more durable than the NASA-made rope.

Each challenge that will be awarded $ 500,000 can be shared between the 3 participating teams if they meet the necessary conditions.