Could a Warp Jet Revolutionize Space Travel by Compressing Space?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of a "warp jet," which is proposed as a method for space travel by compressing space in a manner analogous to a jet engine. Participants explore the feasibility of this idea in relation to theoretical warp drives and the physical principles involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that a warp jet could theoretically compress space in a chamber and then expand it out the back to propel a ship, drawing an analogy to jet engines.
  • Another participant counters that the concept requires a means to warp space, such as a black hole, which presents significant challenges.
  • A different participant emphasizes that the theoretical nature of warp drives, particularly Alcubierre's solution, does not imply practical applicability or uniqueness.
  • Concerns are raised about the immense energies required for such a warp jet, suggesting it is not feasible in the foreseeable future.
  • One participant expresses skepticism about the viability of the warp jet concept, labeling it as a theoretical exercise rather than a practical idea.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of the warp jet concept, with some considering it a nonsensical idea while others acknowledge its theoretical basis. There is no consensus on the practicality of the proposal.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the speculative nature of warp drive theories, the dependence on advanced physical concepts, and unresolved questions about the energies required for such a mechanism.

Ethan Deibert
I was looking at videos on how a warp drive theoretically could work: by compressing space in front and expanding space in the back. This reminded me of a jet engine compressing air and blasting it out of a nozzle.
My question is, could you build a sort of warp jet that would compress space inside of a chamber using whatever method is proposed in a warp drive to compress the space, and then blasting it out the back where it would expand pushing your ship forward? This would avoid having to expand space at all. I was never good at physics so I don't know if what I'm saying is nonsense but it's just a thought I had.
THanks!
 
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The problem is that your ship has to carry on board something which can warp space, a black hole.
That's difficult for a number of reasons.
 
Thread closed for a bit for Moderation.
 
Ethan Deibert said:
I was looking at videos on how a warp drive theoretically could work [ed.: my emphasis]: by compressing space in front and expanding space in the back. This reminded me of a jet engine compressing air and blasting it out of a nozzle.
It might remind you of a jet engine, but it cannot be really compared. Theoretical here means that Alcubierre's solution is one special solution to Einstein's field equations. Those solutions are neither unique nor does it mean, they have automatically any physical relevance.
My question is, could you build a sort of warp jet that would compress space inside of a chamber using whatever method is proposed in a warp drive to compress the space, and then blasting it out the back where it would expand pushing your ship forward?
No. At least not in the next millenium. The energies which are needed are far beyond any reasonable value.
This would avoid having to expand space at all. I was never good at physics so I don't know if what I'm saying is nonsense but it's just a thought I had.
I'm afraid it is nonsense as far as any realization is concerned. Have a read of the Wikipedia page I linked to. The idea is a funny theoretical exercise. And yes, what M. Kaku tells on TV is a bit too speculative and pure science fiction.
 
And with that very helpful reply, this thread will remain closed.
 

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