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Develop a permanantly spacebound ion powered manned spacecraft to explore our solar system for resources

Created by E.L. on April 09, 2013

Use existing technology to build a spacecraft that remaines in orbit and is used to explore the solar system. Powered by atomic reactors and propelled by chemical rocket boosters for initial thrust giving way to ion propulsion for long term speed buildup to cover the large distances between planets. Ship would have a small complement crew to deploy small robotic probes around each destination to explore for minerals, usable chemical stores, and water on various moons and planets within out solar system with the intent to mine and exploit the resources to further develop mankinds ability to expand and survive far into the future. Mapping the available resources is the first step into the expansion of humanity into the cosmos.

Innovation: Arts & Technology
Energy & Environment
Technology & Innovation
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