Space-based structures and methods of delivering space-sourced materials
US9409658B1 · kind B1 · utility
18Cited by
0References
11Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 18, 2014 |
| Grant date | Aug 9, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 17, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/1064
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method is provided for processing extraterrestrial metal into a metal foam or gossamer structure in space, and delivering the metal foam or gossamer structure intact to the Earth's surface. Additionally, a structure is provided that is formed in space and consists essentially of an extraterrestrial metal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.