Neal Stephenson's Conceptual Sci-Fi Building Proposes Rocket Launches
Laura McQuarrie — September 25, 2013 — Tech
References: hieroglyph.asu.edu & dezeen
Scientists and engineers at Arizona State University's Center for Science and the Imagination are working on a concept with science fiction author Neal Stephenson to develop sci-fi building that is capable of launching rockets into outer space.
Before becoming an author, Stephenson studied physics, familiarizing him with issues like wind pressure and the constraints of today's building materials. He claims that one day, "high-grade steel could one day be used to build a tower that is around 24 times as tall as the 830-metre Burj Khalifa," which is currently the world's tallest man-made structure.
The proposed design of 'The Tall Building' is part of 'Project Hieroglyph,' which aims to bring the visions of sci-fi writers into reality. Stephenson imagines that this structure would tower over the ground at over 12 miles high and because of its height, it would become one of the most cost-effective ways to send objects into space.
Before becoming an author, Stephenson studied physics, familiarizing him with issues like wind pressure and the constraints of today's building materials. He claims that one day, "high-grade steel could one day be used to build a tower that is around 24 times as tall as the 830-metre Burj Khalifa," which is currently the world's tallest man-made structure.
The proposed design of 'The Tall Building' is part of 'Project Hieroglyph,' which aims to bring the visions of sci-fi writers into reality. Stephenson imagines that this structure would tower over the ground at over 12 miles high and because of its height, it would become one of the most cost-effective ways to send objects into space.
Trend Themes
1. Space-accessible Skyscrapers - The development of skyscrapers that function as a cost-effective mode of launching rockets into space.
2. Sci-fi Architecture - The integration of science fiction concepts into real-world architecture as a form of disruptive innovation.
3. High-grade Steel in Construction - Exploring the potential for high-grade steel materials to push the limits of building height and structural design.
Industry Implications
1. Construction Industry - Opportunities for research and development of materials and building methods to support the creation of space-accessible skyscrapers.
2. Space Industry - The potential for innovation in space transportation and object launching through the use of cost-effective skyscrapers.
3. Architecture Industry - Incorporating sci-fi concepts into real-world buildings as a disruptive innovation in structural design and purpose.
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