Space Influences on Earth’s Ecological and Economic Systems

Abstract

The remarkable growth of the world’s economy makes us feel its growth is unlimited. Economic expansion, however, induces many kinds of unfavorable influences on the environment: the exhaustion of natural resources, the destruction of nature, and a shortage of food. Finally we cannot know the limits of growth. One of the remedies for these ill effects is to promote the utilization of space around the earth. A lunar base and solar power satellites (SPSs) are projected developments. The influence of these developments on the terrestrial systems is assessed here by means of a simulation. The method of “System Dynamics” developed by J.W. Forrester was used to analyze the evolution of the systems considered. Our model involves three subsystems: the earth, the lunar base, and the SPS. The following results are obtained from the present simulation:

• 1. The use of lunar resources will help us reduce the consumption of terrestrial resources and improve the economic situation on earth.

• 2. SPS will enable transfer of electric power to earth after an initial stage, which provides a solution-to a potential energy crisis. Moreover, we are prevented from Polluting the air, thereby ensuring economic growth.