Determine the number of standard graphite pencils required to reach the Kármán line.
* Results are estimates based on highly questionable scientific data.
Space starts at the Kármán line, 100 kilometers above sea level. A standard pencil is about 19 centimeters long. This calculator determines how many pencils you'd need to stack end-to-end to leave the atmosphere.
While a pencil ladder is theoretically possible, the structural integrity of graphite and wood at high altitudes is questionable. Additionally, the wind at the jet stream level would likely scatter your pencils across several continents.
Let's calculate Pencil Ladder for a typical scenario:
Altitude: 100 km
Target = 100 km
Pencil = 0.00019 km
100 / 0.00019 = 526,315 pencils
Final Answer
526,315 Pencils
The ones at the top might, due to solar radiation. The ones at the bottom will just be crushed.
Yes, but you'll need to account for the lead extending, which adds complexity.
We recommend a space-grade adhesive or a very long piece of tape.
You'll need twice as many and your hand will cramp faster.
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