What happens if an Alcubierre warp drive fails?

In summary, the conversation discusses the effects of shutting down a warp drive and the possibility of maintaining a constant velocity while no longer being able to stop. The Alcubierre spacetime and its potential for modification is also mentioned.
  • #1
dividebyxero
5
0
If the warp drive is shut down either by its destruction or just plain turning it off, what happens? Does the vessel stop? Continue coasting forward? If so how would the time dilation factor at speeds several thousand times the speed of light?
 
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  • #2
Oh, come on everyone knows you can't go past warp 10, and everytime it shuts down the ship just stops.
 
  • #3
Let's just hope the inertial dampeners are working !

GrayGhost
 
  • #4
So would one be constantly accelerating under such a drive, but then be able to decelerate instantly?
 
  • #5
I *think* that once you have created the Alcubierre spacetime, nothing physically needs to be done to maintain it. That is, the bubble will continue coasting with whatever velocity (with respect to distant observers) it had originally. The only thing is you will no longer be able to stop.

Although, the Alcubierre solution is static, so it's not entirely clear what would happen if you tried to modify it.
 

1. What exactly is an Alcubierre warp drive?

An Alcubierre warp drive is a theoretical concept proposed by physicist Miguel Alcubierre that suggests a way to achieve faster-than-light travel by warping the space-time fabric around a spacecraft.

2. How does an Alcubierre warp drive work?

The Alcubierre warp drive works by creating a bubble of distorted space-time around the spacecraft. This bubble would contract space in front of the spacecraft and expand space behind it, allowing the ship to travel through this distorted space faster than the speed of light.

3. What are the potential risks of using an Alcubierre warp drive?

One potential risk is the creation of large amounts of radiation, both in front and behind the spacecraft, due to the intense energy required for the warp drive to function. Another risk is the potential damage to the space-time fabric, which could have unforeseen consequences on the universe.

4. What would happen if an Alcubierre warp drive fails?

If an Alcubierre warp drive were to fail, the spacecraft would likely be stranded in the distorted space-time bubble. This could potentially be dangerous, as it may be difficult to return to normal space. Additionally, the intense energy required for the warp drive could cause damage to the spacecraft or surrounding environment.

5. Is an Alcubierre warp drive possible?

At this time, an Alcubierre warp drive is still a theoretical concept and has not been proven to be possible. The amount of energy required to create the space-time bubble is immense and would require technology beyond our current capabilities. However, research and experimentation in this area continue, and it is possible that new advancements could make the warp drive a reality in the future.

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