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C00002 00002	notes for space conference
C00005 00003	∂14-Jan-81  0401	OTA  	SPACE Digest  
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notes for space conference

basic technology is important, 1 billion per year or ten percent
low earth orbit base

exploration must be an explicit motive apart from near term applications
or science.  Justifications based on the latter are likely to be
overcome by arguments that other things are more cost-effective.

Do you want space colonies in your lifetime?

A private organization should see if people can be prodded in that
direction by leading questions like the above.

The O'Neill ideas need to be diverted in the direction of the maximally
austere space colony.

One way missions are needed.  In general, astronauts should be asked
to accept risks comparable to those accepted by 18th and 19th
century explorers.  The view that the public would be totally
turned of by any misfortunes is a result of some kind of amateur
psychologizing (partly by professionals, but they have no basis
for such conclusions).

political question:  According to the newspapers, Senator Paul Tsongas
is leading a re-evaluation of the liberal political agenda.  Is it
possible that this re-evaluation could be made to include a more
positive attitude toward such forms of National self-assertion
as the space program?  This might be a good time to get in a few
licks before their positions freeze again.
∂14-Jan-81  0401	OTA  	SPACE Digest  
To: SPACE@MIT-MC

SPACE Digest
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: 14 Jan 1981 0047-PST
From: Alan R. Katz <KATZ at USC-ISIF>
Subject: External tank habitat study
To: space-enthusiasts at MIT-MC
cc: katz at USC-ISIF

Correction:  The study to design a space habitat using the shuttle external
tank was not done by OASIS but by a group called Space Systems Development
Group (SSDG). (though all of the SSDG members are OASIS members and the 
ideas was first presented at an OASIS meeting).  The basic idea is to use
the external tanks, and prefab "inflatable" interiers made of a foam that 
expands when hit with microwaves, to create living space for about 200 people.

The cost of such a habitat would be about the same as current designs to 
produce a 6 man habitat not using the external tanks.  The concept is very
interesting and SSDG has published their study which includes some very
good artwork (many of them are architects so they know how to draw).  

If you would like a copy of the study, you can get one by sending $10.00
to:

			S.S.D.G
			136 So. Virgil Ave.  #310
			Los Angeles, Ca.  90004

Ask for the ET Habitability Study.  Its well worth the price.



					Alan
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End of SPACE Digest
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