Deep Space Propulsion

The technology of the next few decadescould possiblyallow us to explore with robotic probes the closest stars outside our Solar System, and maybe even observesome of therecently discovered planets circling these stars. This book looks at the reasons for exploring our stellar neighbors and at the technologies we are developing to build space probes that can traverse the enormous distances between the stars. In order to reach the nearest stars, we must first developa propulsion technologythat wouldtake our robotic probes there in a reasonable time. Such propulsion technology has radically different requirements from conventional chemical rockets, because of the enormous distances that must be crossed. Surprisingly, many propulsion schemes for interstellar travel have been suggested and await only practical engineering solutions and the political will to make them a reality. This is a result of the tremendous advances in astrophysics that have been made in recent decades and the perseverance and imagination of tenacious theoretical physicists. This book explores these different propulsion schemes all based on current physics and the challenges they present to physicists, engineers, and space exploration entrepreneurs. This book will be helpful to anyone who really wants to understand the principles behind and likely futurecourse of interstellar travel and who wants torecognizes the distinctions between pure fantasy (such asStar Treks warp drive) and methodsthat are grounded in real physics and offer practical technological solutions for exploring the stars in the decades to come.