X-Message-Number: 32359
References: <>
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 13:02:23 -0600
Subject: Re: CryoNet #32356 - #32357
From: Freeposity <>

On Thu, Feb 4, 2010 at 4:00 AM, CryoNet <> wrote:
> Message #32356
> From: "John de Rivaz" <>
> References: <>
> Subject: Re: Organic progress model versus the Drunkard's Walk
> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:45:42 -0000
>
> As far as rockets are concerned, I am wondering whether the lack of
> enthusiasm is because that although they do the job, they are really quite
> impractical on an econmic basis for getting out of gravity wells. Clarke's
> idea of the space elevator seemed like a wild fantasy at the time of
> inception, but nanotechnology has made it look more of a possibility. The
> trouble is, that it could still be too long for most aspiring astronauts
> alive today before the materials are found to implement it.
>

Actually the materials have been found. What's missing is the
manufacturing capability and the will to build it. Carbon nanotubes
are strong enough to make a space elevator tether. Carbon nanotubes
are being manufactured now but not at the quality and quantity needed
for the space elevator.


> There is a similar parallel with cures for aging. Heroic surgery is a bit
> like rockets - expensive and capable for helping only a few people, and not
> achieving much in terms of maximum lifespan. With the passing years,
> nanotechnological methods are looking more feasible. But they are too late
> for those alive today.
>

I wouldn't bet on that. Many people alive today will live another 80
years just at the current level of medical technology. I know people
who have gained decades of life through stem cell therapy which
resulted in new heart tissue being grown. 10 years ago people with
heart failure were on a downward spiral with no hope of regaining
function and now some actually can reverse the damage done to the
heart.

Just in the last few years we've seen a therapy developed  that can
cure diabetes. I've read about successful imprinting of immune systems
with foreign organs so the recipient does not need to take anti
rejection medication.

I really think that in less than 2 decades we will see trans species
organ transplants come out as a viable and successful response to
organ failure.


-- 
Your friendly neighborhood agnostic atheist
and reality based hope monger

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