Sai detailed plans of an LBSE (Lunar based space elevator), moon orbiting pods and an Earth based space elevator or EBSE anchored from the poles with a counterweight point being a solar based power system for an asteroid located 250,000 km in space. The boy then brilliantly outlined proposals for the lunar base with entertainment centers, recreation, administration, governance and agriculture.
According to Sai Kiran, The cost factor of sending humans to the moon in rockets could well be reduced by constructing such elevators that would bridge the space gap of 40,000 kms.
Image Source: www.shazoo.ru
The most important aspect of Kiran’s thesis was the emphasis on resolving problems on gravity where in the absence of gravity, a settlement wasn’t possible. The boy’s project undoubtedly impressed NASA which is why he was awarded a NASA ‘moon’ prize.
Sai Kiran a student of the British International School was all smiles as he received the second prize from NSS senior researcher Al Globus. While Sai Kiran’s project was truly impressive, the Grand Prize went to two young Indian students of the 10th grade Shaswat G. and Ankita P from New Delhi for “ANASTASI 2032 an underwater base to simulate a space settlement. They were among several Indian students who made a clean sweep of the awards.
Image Source: www.newsheads.in