Japanese researchers from Kyoto University, in collaboration with construction giant Kajima Corporation, have unveiled plans for a revolutionary space project – a bullet train to the moon and Mars. This ambitious project aims to establish interplanetary transportation systems that would ferry passengers from Earth to artificial gravity living facilities on the moon and Mars.
The Hexagon Space Track System
The Standard referred to the centerpiece of this visionary initiative is the Hexagon Space Track System, a revolutionary transportation network designed to connect Earth, the moon, and Mars. The system features a cutting-edge “space train” that will traverse the vast expanse of space, stopping at stations located on orbiting satellites.
Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, head of the Human Spaceology Centre at Kyoto University, explained, “Our space train will be equipped with six cars, resembling the size of Japanese Bullet trains. These cars will be propelled using linear motors or rocket engines, ensuring swift and efficient travel across space.”
The journey begins with passengers boarding the space train on Earth, embarking on an exhilarating voyage towards the moon and Mars. Upon arrival at designated stations, the train cars will be separated and transported in hexagon capsules, ensuring precision and safety during transit.
“Our goal is to establish ‘artificial gravity living facilities’ on the moon and Mars,” stated Dr. Tanaka. “These facilities, named Lunar Glass and Mars Glass, will replicate the biodiversity of Earth, featuring lush forests and serene waterfronts.”
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The living habitats, known as “The Glass,” are envisioned as sprawling structures that mimic the gravitational pull and terrain of Earth. These innovative habitats will not only provide a comfortable living environment for inhabitants but also serve as vital research outposts for studying extraterrestrial ecosystems.
“Our vision for ‘The Glass’ is to create a home away from home,” remarked Dr. Tanaka. “With amenities akin to those found on Earth, including public transit systems and green spaces, these habitats will foster a sense of familiarity and belonging for future space travelers.”
The researchers have outlined plans for the Hexatrack, an interplanetary transportation system designed to maintain artificial gravity during long-distance travel. Hexacapsules, equipped with a central moving device, will facilitate seamless transit between Earth, the moon, and Mars.
“Our aim with the Hexatrack is to mitigate the effects of prolonged exposure to low gravity,” explained Dr. Tanaka. “By maintaining a constant gravitational force of 1G, we can ensure the health and well-being of passengers during interplanetary travel.”
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While the announcement of Japan’s bullet train to the moon and Mars has captured the imagination of many, some experts remain skeptical about the feasibility of such ambitious projects.
Dr. Mei Lin, a space analyst, commented, “The concept of a bullet train to space certainly sounds like something out of a science fiction novel. However, the technological challenges and astronomical costs involved cannot be overlooked.”
The Business Post reported the development and announced that the project is expected to be completed by 2050, but it might take a century for it to be completed.