Space Platform

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

25051

Title

Space Platform

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In a near-future America, young engineer Joe Kenmore transports critical pilot gyros to the construction site of the Space Platform, humanity's first artificial moon. Amidst a tense atmosphere of sabotage, murder, and political intrigue, Joe and his diverse team of friends race against time to launch the station into orbit, securing a future for space exploration while facing ruthless agents determined to keep Earth's power politics unchanged.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in the isolated desert town of Bootstrap, Murray Leinster's *Space Platform* chronicles the perilous construction of humanity's first artificial satellite, a massive station intended to serve as a stepping stone for interstellar exploration. The narrative centers on Joe Kenmore, a young engineer from the local Kenmore Precision Tool plant, who travels by plane to deliver highly sensitive pilot gyros essential for the station's stability. Upon arrival, Joe joins a dedicated team of workers, including the rugged Chief, a steelworker; Mike, a brilliant midget; and Haney. They operate under a cloak-and-dagger atmosphere, as the project faces a 'local hot war' of sabotage. Political rivals fear that a manned space station equipped with guided missiles will disrupt the existing military balance of power, prompting agents to attempt to destroy the Platform before launch. The story escalates with immediate threats, including an attempted atomic sabotage by a man named Braun, which the team foils through quick thinking and strict security measures involving Geiger counters. The narrative explores the immense psychological strain on the workers, the rigorous safety protocols, and the personal stakes involved, highlighted by Joe's budding romance with Sally, the daughter of Major Holt, the project's commander. Despite chaos, including a failed attempt to dust-bomb the construction shed, the team successfully repairs the sabotaged gyros and prepares for the critical launch. The climax features the dramatic ascent of the Space Platform. Using a combination of pushpot engines, jet streams, and rocket boosters, the massive structure lifts off, leaving a trail of smoke and dust before ascending into the sky. The Platform achieves a stable orbit around the Earth, becoming a tiny, shining speck visible to millions. The characters celebrate their triumph, knowing they have secured a new era for mankind, though the threat of political interference remains. Joe is recognized for his bravery and skill, receiving an appointment to lead a ferry rocket to the new station, cementing his role in this historic achievement.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Local file path

data/epubs/pg25051.epub

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2026-07-05 22:09 UTC

Categories

• Fiction
• Science Fiction