Alcubierre Drive: Faster Than Light Travel Possible?

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SUMMARY

The Alcubierre Drive proposes a theoretical model for faster-than-light travel by manipulating spacetime without violating the laws of relativity. Current research indicates that this concept requires exotic materials with negative energy density, which are still under investigation within the field of quantum theory. Disagreements among physicists regarding the quantity of exotic material needed for practical implementation highlight the ongoing nature of this research. A comprehensive technical review on warp drive spacetimes can be found at arxiv.org/abs/0710.4474.

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  • Understanding of general relativity principles
  • Familiarity with quantum theory and exotic materials
  • Knowledge of spacetime manipulation concepts
  • Ability to interpret scientific papers and technical reviews
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  • Research the implications of negative energy density in quantum theory
  • Explore advanced concepts in general relativity related to warp drive
  • Study the technical review on warp drive spacetimes at arxiv.org/abs/0710.4474
  • Investigate current experimental approaches to creating exotic materials
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Physicists, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in theoretical physics and the future of space travel will benefit from reading this discussion.

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I stumbled across it on wikipedia. I'd never heard of it before but sounds quite interesting. I wonder if it'll ever be pursued as a way for faster than light travel. I think it's clever the way it allows this without defying the laws of relativity. What's everyone elses opinion?
 
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Unredeemed said:
I stumbled across it on wikipedia. I'd never heard of it before but sounds quite interesting. I wonder if it'll ever be pursued as a way for faster than light travel. I think it's clever the way it allows this without defying the laws of relativity. What's everyone elses opinion?

There are serious papers on warp drive spacetimes, but this types of spacetime requires exotic material (negative energy density as measured by some observers). Quantum theory seem to indicate that exotic material exists, but how much is needed for these spacetimes is a matter of disagreement among physicists, i.e., research is still ongoing. A good technical review is

http://arxiv.org/abs/0710.4474.

This review mentions other problems, as well.
 

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