The Physics of Interstellar Travel
10 hours ago
- #interstellar travel
- #physics textbook
- #space propulsion
- The book fills a gap in textbooks for college and graduate-level interstellar travel studies.
- Interstellar travel has gained public and scientific interest, partly due to projects like Breakthrough Starshot and exoplanet discoveries.
- The book covers physics-based mission designs, including fusion, beamed sails, and relativistic motion, but excludes biological aspects like generation ships.
- It emphasizes mathematical rigor and step-by-step precursor missions to avoid obsolescence.
- Discussions in the text highlight gaps, such as limited historical figures, microwave propulsion, cost analysis, and ethical risks of beam technologies.
- Interstellar travel feasibility depends on energy, propulsion technology, and potential future advancements in longevity and robotics.