Scope and Objectives

This paper develops early explorations of the capabilities MNT will provide in the area of space operations. It is an example of theoretical applied science , examining what sorts of applied capabilities are and are not feasible within our current understanding of physical law. The best example of theoretical applied science in the area of molecular nanotechnology is , which developed estimated technical performance parameters for molecular nanotechnology (table 1). This paper takes those parameters, and applies them to models of previously defined space system architectures. It also discusses a methodology for extending, deepening and refining out understanding of the actual capabilities molecular nanotechnology will provide, applicable to many fields.

Table 1. Estimates used in this research for the technical performance parameters of MNT are taken from .

Parameter	Value	Unit
Product Tensile Strength	5 x 10^10	Pa
Corresponding Material Density	3,510	kg/m3
Mechanosynthetic Device Operating Rate	10^6	Hz
Marginal Manufacturing Costs	0.1 - 0.5	$/kg