Megastructures

Distinguish one object from coordinated distributed components.

Connect size with the task a design must achieve.

Locate the demonstrated part of each proposal.

Compare permitted physics with materials and operational capability.

Specify the constraints a large concept must satisfy.

Check dimensions before comparing design numbers.

Compare how material and surface demands grow differently.

Distinguish instantaneous output from delivered energy.

Connect material flow with a plausible completion schedule.

Vary uncertain inputs rather than quote one exact forecast.

Compare load paths and modes of structural failure.

Distinguish supported structures from free-falling systems.

Connect changing motion with stability and correction.

Close an energy balance including rejected heat.

Compare temperature, radiation and exposure constraints.

Translate a purpose into measurable design outcomes.

Map power, matter, data and mechanical connections.

Compare surviving functions when components fail.

Separate component success from whole-system performance.

Include maintenance and end-of-life requirements early.

Specify destination, output and operating duration.

Build a unit-checked first model from supplied values.

Add missing subsystems to the initial estimate.

Revise area, rejected heat and delivered power together.

Choose a prototype that can test the key uncertainty.