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> Do you really want to trust this step to a rocket that has to be assembled and fueled in space? Yes. Isn’t that the next logical step to developing space—the

• sq_ 7y ago
  > Yes. Isn’t that the next logical step to developing space—the ability to build structures in orbit? I think you're totally right about this. If we want to really get going on living in space or even just doing certain manufacturing processes in space, it seems like we're going to need to start building real structures in orbit rather than fitting everything into a launch or two. My guess is that, if it doesn't happen now, we'll start doing construction in orbit if/when we start mining the Moon or asteroids. Not having to haul equipment up Earth's gravity well and producing fuel in situ seems like it will allow small launches on reusable "tugs" to become the most efficient means of getting things into space.