A revolution in access to space through spinoffs of SDI technology

Strategic Defense Initiative Organization (SDIO) gun technology for launching small interceptors up to the size of Brilliant Pebbles is shown to extrapolate to very-low-cost-launch of Brilliant Pebbles and other small payloads in the 100-1000 kg class. Gun launch to space (GLTS) of mass-produced low-earth-orbit satellites is shown to possibly result in the creation of $100-$300 billion annual space communications market. Low-cost launch of fuel, water, and other expendables to a space station, the Moon, and Mars is shown to apply to a vigorous expansion of interplanetary missions within constrained budgets. The implications of a new GLTS space launch infrastructure which allows launches on an hourly rather than a yearly basis, at costs of thousands of dollars per launch rather than many millions, are explored. The developments and issues in electromagnetic and thermal gun launch, payload technologies, rocket propulsion, and space launch demand which could shape and drive this revolution in access to space are reviewed.<
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