Protrusive Structure
A Protrusive Structure, or simply "protrusive," is a megastructure which typically appears on high-technology worlds with high population densities.
Description (Specifications)
A protrusive structure is a megastructure that reaches beyond the Karman Line, thus protrudes into space. A protrusive can be considered a type of arcology, but this is a useful side effect of its primary function of reaching into space. Protrusives almost invariably have downports at their crests. Of necessity they are constructed on surfaces that are as close as possible to being geologically inert.
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History & Background (Dossier)
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Benefits A protrusive structure provides many of the benefits of an orbital station while remaining in direct contact with the ground.
- A downport at the crest provides ground access to spacecraft that are unable to safely enter atmospheres.
- Industrial processes requiring vacuum can be performed at whatever altitude provides the required pressure.
- Line of sight for telecommunications covers a significant arc of the planetary surface and once established remains stable.
- Since a protrusive is on the ground, personnel and cargo transport is handled with elevators, making travel less expensive and less inconvenient.
--Tom Chlebus 12:45, 9 May 2019 (EDT)