Axis Nova
02-03-2004, 11:06
Today, the Axis Nova government has published a study concerning the initiation a space program at some point in the future.
At the moment, the results are not terribly encouraging. Projections show that Axis Nova's population must grow to at least 2.5 times it's present size to be able to support such an expensive effort.
However, our economy is doing well, and it is believed that within 5-10 years we will have the sufficient population for such an endeavour.
The obstacles at this point are mostly in the area of research; the funding required for programs to develop the neccesary technology will be prohibitive.
It is believed, however, that we may be able to adapt certain technologies already in use... however, this will take much work and time.
Areas that require the most attention are:
-High energy power supply devices: Current generation technology relies on fossil fuels, super high capacity battery systems, and solar power; these will be insufficient for our needs.
-Navigation: Our sensor technology, although reasonable enough for planetary scales, must be improved drastically to allow for accurate navigation.
-Materials: We will require a whole new generation of light, strong metals and lightweight composites to form the frames and hulls of our ships. At least in this direction, there are a few promising hints.
-Propulsion: Current rocket technology, while sufficient to propel aircraft and airships, are entirely unsuited for any sort of extra-atmospheric use. A breakthrough will be required in both materials and power generation before this problem can be solved.
Axis Nova Science Office
(I'm trying to RP a nation that wants a space program, but in no way, shape, or form can do one right now, both for budget and technological reasons. I'll really only get going on this once my population reaches 100 million and I can start making noises about fusion power...)
At the moment, the results are not terribly encouraging. Projections show that Axis Nova's population must grow to at least 2.5 times it's present size to be able to support such an expensive effort.
However, our economy is doing well, and it is believed that within 5-10 years we will have the sufficient population for such an endeavour.
The obstacles at this point are mostly in the area of research; the funding required for programs to develop the neccesary technology will be prohibitive.
It is believed, however, that we may be able to adapt certain technologies already in use... however, this will take much work and time.
Areas that require the most attention are:
-High energy power supply devices: Current generation technology relies on fossil fuels, super high capacity battery systems, and solar power; these will be insufficient for our needs.
-Navigation: Our sensor technology, although reasonable enough for planetary scales, must be improved drastically to allow for accurate navigation.
-Materials: We will require a whole new generation of light, strong metals and lightweight composites to form the frames and hulls of our ships. At least in this direction, there are a few promising hints.
-Propulsion: Current rocket technology, while sufficient to propel aircraft and airships, are entirely unsuited for any sort of extra-atmospheric use. A breakthrough will be required in both materials and power generation before this problem can be solved.
Axis Nova Science Office
(I'm trying to RP a nation that wants a space program, but in no way, shape, or form can do one right now, both for budget and technological reasons. I'll really only get going on this once my population reaches 100 million and I can start making noises about fusion power...)