(4) In ground-launched SSPS concepts the entire weight of the power plant has to be carted up through the atmosphere. The quantities involved (up to half a million tons per year, if the SSPS program is to be of substantial benefit) are high enough that environmentalist objections, particularly regarding the ozone layer of the atmosphere might be strong enough to hamper the program seriously, as has happened in the case of nuclear power. Also in this reference a table is given comparing the costs of several approaches. This table has been adapted by Ira L. Helms of ERDA (ANE/NRA) and is shown here as Exhibit 59. 5. Development Program Whether or not current technology is sufficient for the establishment of a space colony, a tremendous development program will have to be accomplished before it exists. The relevant literature contains essentially two approaches to development and although they differ significantly in detail, they could probably be reconciled if the need arose. The first approach due to O'Neill (Ref. 15) suggests the following as essential components of a balanced program leading toward satellite power: (1) The vigorous continuation and successful operation of the space shuttle. (2) Continued development of microwave power transmission, leading toward pilot-model demonstrations here at ground level of phased-array power transmitters as well as planar receivers. (3) Detailed study of the electromagnetic mass-driver, not only as a launching device but for the easier role of high-thrust, high-velocity reaction engines for use outside the atmosphere. (4) Research on earth into long-term physiological effects of oxygen atmospheres and of rotation. Success in these studies could reduce substantially the cost of construction of a habitat for the work force at an orbital manufacturing facility. (5) Study of continuous-flow chemical processing methods for minerals similar to those found on the moon.
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