Published March 2008 | Version v1
Journal article

New frontiers in space propulsion sciences

  • 1. Gravi Atomic Research, Madison, AL 35757 (United States)
  • 2. Vienna, VA 22182 (United States)
  • 3. Institute for Advanced Studies at Austin, Austin, TX 78759 (United States)

Description

Mankind's destiny points toward a quest for the stars. Realistically, it is difficult to achieve this using current space propulsion science and develop the prerequisite technologies, which for the most part requires the use of massive amounts of propellant to be expelled from the system. Therefore, creative approaches are needed to reduce or eliminate the need for a propellant. Many researchers have identified several unusual approaches that represent immature theories based upon highly advanced concepts. These theories and concepts could lead to creating the enabling technologies and forward thinking necessary to eventually result in developing new directions in space propulsion science. In this paper, some of these theoretical and technological concepts are examined - approaches based upon Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, spacetime curvature, superconductivity, and newer ideas where questions are raised regarding conservation theorems and if some of the governing laws of physics, as we know them, could be violated or are even valid. These conceptual ideas vary from traversable wormholes, Krasnikov tubes and Alcubierre's warpdrive to Electromagnetic (EM) field propulsion with possible hybrid systems that incorporate our current limited understanding of zero point fields and quantum mechanics

Availability note (English)

Available from http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.enconman.2007.10.013

Additional details

Identifiers

DOI
10.1016/j.enconman.2007.10.013;
PII
S0196-8904(07)00369-X;

Publishing Information

Journal Title
Energy Conversion and Management
Journal Volume
49
Journal Issue
3
Journal Page Range
p. 436-452
ISSN
0196-8904
CODEN
ECMADL

Optional Information

Copyright
Copyright (c) 2007 Elsevier Science B.V., Amsterdam, The Netherlands, All rights reserved.