Insane inflatable space elevator concept could lift astronauts 12 miles high

Space enthusiasts and sci-fi fans, rejoice: The space elevator may be one step closer to reality.

A Canadian space company was recently awarded a patent for a space elevator that would reach about 12 miles (20 kilometers) above the Earth's surface.

Although space elevators have been considered a theoretical technology, they have been billed as a cheaper alternative to rocket launches, especially when it comes to sending heavy objects or people into space.

According to Thoth Technology Inc., the company that was awarded the patent, the U.S. patent allows for an elevator that would be 30% cheaper than the fuel required by a conventional rocket. Also, the system would be fully reusable, further reducing costs, the company said. Read more...