deep space or sending it out of the solar system. The author then suggests using the jettisoned tanks as a starting structural base for setting up large industrial operations in orbit (43). Another author proposes deorbiting the tanks and selling the remaining aluminium at the going rates for scrap aluminium (39). A third author proposes using tanks as landing vehicles for large cargos to be deposited on the moon (or possibly Mars). The cargo is carried in one of the tanks and the landing (or controlled crash) is conducted in such a way that the impact and crushing of the tank absorbs the excess energy in landing and thus cuts the energy requirements necessary for a soft landing of cargo. The point in this discussion is this. The ET presents an enormous possibility in the expansion of operations into space. The ET is an item that is very flexible to a broad range of user applications (25). It is simply capable of an enormous range of possible uses, most likely yet to be concieved. We do not yet know what is the best way to use the tank. What we do know is that the more investigators look at the tank and tank applications, the more possible applications are proposed. Two important decisions need to be made quickly. The first decision that needs to be made is the early insertion and on orbit storage of the ET. The second decision concerns ownership and identification of possible markets for the tank. We are in the position at this time to start planning for the future of this nation in space. If this resource is inserted into orbit and made available for sale to interested parties either before or after launch, the possibilities for the future of this nation in space are far greater for far less money.
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