Breakthrough Starshot: 1st Macroscopic Test of Longitudinal Acceleration

In summary, Breakthrough Starshot is a project that plans to use a superlaser to accelerate a tiny craft up to 0.2 c. With an accelerometer on board, it would be possible to test longitudinal acceleration at such speeds, where the faster the craft, the less its acceleration. This small difference of 6% is significant by relativistic standards. This project may signify the beginning of an era where relativistic effects become extremely significant. However, some argue that these effects are already present in modern technology, such as GPS. Nonetheless, the use of longitudinal acceleration in particle accelerators is common, but in this case, it would be on a macroscopic scale.
  • #1
greswd
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Breakthrough Starshot is an ambitious project that aims to use a superlaser to push a tiny craft up to 0.2 c
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breakthrough_Starshot

At such speeds, it would be possible to perform a macroscopic test of the longitudinal acceleration, provided the craft has an accelerometer on itself.

##a=\frac{F}{γ^3m}##

The faster the craft, the less its acceleration. At 0.2 c, the difference is about 6%, small but very large by relativistic standards.

Maybe we're finally entering the era where relativistic effects will become extremely significant.:smile:
 
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  • #2
greswd said:
Maybe we're finally entering the era where relativistic effects will become extremely significant.

I thought they already had with the GPS being almost ubiquitous in modern technology. Nonetheless, a fascinating project.

Regards Andrew
 
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  • #3
Particle accelerators use longitudinal acceleration all the time.
 
  • #4
mfb said:
Particle accelerators use longitudinal acceleration all the time.

you missed the word "macroscopic". the object being accelerated in this case is macroscopic
 
  • #5
I missed that part, but I also don't see how it would be relevant.
 
  • #6
mfb said:
I missed that part, but I also don't see how it would be relevant.

Its exciting to see relativistic effects at such a large extent.
 

What is Breakthrough Starshot?

Breakthrough Starshot is a research project that aims to develop and test a new method of space travel called "longitudinal acceleration." This method involves using powerful lasers to propel lightweight spacecrafts at extremely high speeds, allowing them to reach nearby star systems in a matter of decades instead of centuries.

How does longitudinal acceleration work?

Longitudinal acceleration works by using powerful laser beams to propel a spacecraft, similar to how a sailboat is pushed forward by the wind. The lasers would be fired at the spacecraft's light sail, which is a large, ultra-thin sail that reflects the laser light and uses its momentum to accelerate the spacecraft.

What is the goal of the 1st macroscopic test of longitudinal acceleration?

The goal of the 1st macroscopic test of longitudinal acceleration is to demonstrate the feasibility of this propulsion method by launching a small spacecraft and accelerating it to 20% of the speed of light, which would be a record-breaking achievement. This test will also help refine and improve the technology for future space missions.

What are some potential applications of Breakthrough Starshot's technology?

The technology developed through Breakthrough Starshot could have many potential applications beyond space travel. It could be used for satellite propulsion, asteroid deflection, and even to study distant objects in our own solar system. It could also lead to advancements in laser and materials technology.

What are some challenges and limitations of longitudinal acceleration?

Some of the challenges and limitations of longitudinal acceleration include the need for extremely powerful and precise lasers, the difficulty of controlling and aiming the lasers over large distances, and the potential damage to the spacecraft from collisions with space debris. Additionally, the technology is still in its early stages and requires further research and development before it can be used for long-distance space travel.

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