It just occurs to me that even moment control gyros could have magnetic bearings, which theoretically should not fail. Or am I missing something about the design of these gyros?
Heinlein told us in "Destination Moon" that we shouldn't use normal lubricants in space.
As for the secondary discussion, the meek may well inherit the Earth. Those who are not meek will want to spread out.
You and I both are in agreement that the cost is not the problem. If private enterprise were allowed entry at the table, we would have had colonies out there already.
There's gold in them there empty spaces!
Attitude control gyros or flywheels could indeed have magnetic bearings, which makes bearing noise even more worrisome!