Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Living in Space

If humanity really does damage the environment of Earth to the point that it is no longer suitable for sustaining us, we will have to find alternative places to live or we'll very predictably die. Most likely this would involve creating underwater/underground cities - self enclosed and self sustaining. But if we managed to completely destroy the Earth, where would we go?

Space is logical. We have put several space stations in orbit, after all. What would you need?

For a substantial population to live for an extend period in space, you'd need:
1. A substantial supply of water, and a way to recycle water that is used.
2. A renewable source of electricity.
3. A way to produce Earth-like gravity for the population.
4. Farming facilities - probably hydroponic farming.
5. Protection from solar/extra-solar radiation.
6. A sealed atmosphere, and a way to filter any contaminants. Farming would provide a way to
7. A way to collect needed materials that you can't produce.

A simplified list certainly - but I plan to go into more detail in the future. Check back later for the Astronomical Intelligence's Guide to Living in Space.

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