On the possibility of creating the project of a subrelativistic probe to search for the forms of outer-terrestrial life
Abstract
The possibility is considered of designing a space probe propelled by non-thermonuclear chain-fusion microexplosions for the purpose of searching for extraterrestrial life in a region up to about 60,000 AU from earth. Relative disadvantages of the Project Daedalus vehicle and advantages of the present vehicle are evaluated. It is suggested that the space probe should be borne by a three-stage launch vehicle and should attain a maximum velocity of 0.28c. For a payload of 10 tons, it is shown that the duration of a flight to Barnard's star would be about 50 to 60 years.
- Publication:
-
Anaheim International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1976
- Bibcode:
- 1976anah.iafcQ....F
- Keywords:
-
- Extrasolar Planets;
- Extraterrestrial Life;
- Feasibility Analysis;
- Interstellar Spacecraft;
- Relativistic Velocity;
- Space Probes;
- Launch Vehicles;
- Life Span;
- Multistage Rocket Vehicles;
- Nuclear Propulsion;
- Payloads;
- Space Exploration;
- Spacecraft Design;
- Technological Forecasting;
- Space Sciences (General)