As I’m re-reading the red / green / blue mars series, I’m amazed by the discovery of Liftport. 2018 is also the launch date for a manned mars mission.

Liftport Inc. is a different kind of high-tech startup. Our mission is to build a vital and highly profitable infrastructure for off-world industry. Our first project is the Space Elevator, which will revolutionize space exploration and utilization – first, in the neighborhood of the Earth, and then throughout the solar system. The Space Elevator is a key enabling technology for any work done off the planet, whether in near-earth orbit, at geosynchronous distances, or far beyond the moon. The era of violently blasting things (and people) into space on top of wasteful, dangerous rockets is almost over. In 15 years, we will get there quietly, reliably, safely, and at a fraction of the cost. the lift date is July 1st, 2018.

2006-10-03: CNT strength is, of course, on the critical path.

2006-10-26: Java applet (with annoying IE only check) to play with SE parameters: CNT strength, climber payload, etc.
2019-08-25: A lunar space elevator should be possible in a few years as it doesn’t require exotic new materials. It would save lots because braking to the surface is a significant factor.