This SFU experiment has much in common with both the initial and advanced demonstrator reference concepts, particularly in the use of a tether system to deploy a target subsatellite. However, it has the disadvantage of being very expensive - equivalent to a flight of Eureca, for example. Therefore, Europe might consider offering Japan involvement in the less expensive ASAP demonstrator to provide initial experience before investing in the higher cost SFU equipment. Likewise, Europe could then contribute to a Japanese-led effort using the SFU as an alternative or complement to the Astro-SPAS reference concept Apparently, Japanese organisations are interested in international cooperation on SPS-type activities from an early stage. As the JETRO paper notes, In fact, the SPS is a massive, ambitious undertaking involving many formidable technical problems such as how to build the massive structures and how to transport it into outer space. These matters cannot be solved by a single country due to the lack of researchers and funds. In addition, the benefits of SPS commercialization should be enjoyed by all countries, and not only by Japan or any other single country. Therefore, research on SPS should be advanced from the initial stage under close liaison and cooperation among SPS and energy researchers worldwide. Before committing to a Powersat demonstration programme, it would seem worthwhile for Europe to sound out Japanese interest in a participatory or joint cooperative programme. 7.3 With the Commonwealth of Independent States The upheavals in the former Soviet Union have made it difficult to obtain a clear understanding of their past activities and future interests. However, Western observers [40] have stated that the former Soviets have been studying for many years a range of Powersat-type applications. In particular, it is claimed that the Soviets have demonstrated the ability to “bounce” several kWs
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