ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Space tether

A space tether is like a really long rope that is used in space instead of on the ground. It is made of a strong material, like metal, and can be tens of thousands of feet long! People use space tethers to do different things in space.

One use of a space tether is to anchor a spacecraft or satellite in space. You know how you might anchor a balloon to a string so it doesn't fly away? It's the same idea in space, but the rope is much longer and much stronger.

Another use of a space tether is to move things around in space. You know how you might pull a wagon with a rope? In space, a space tether can be used to pull a spacecraft or satellite without using up any fuel. It can also be used to capture space debris or garbage and bring it back to Earth so it doesn't float around in space and cause problems.

Sometimes, people use space tethers to create electricity. When a long rope moves through the Earth's magnetic field, it creates an electric current that can be used to power things in space.

Overall, space tethers are really cool because they help us do lots of different things in space without having to use lots of fuel.
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