I love Octonions as well as alternative propulsion ideas

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the topic of alternative propulsion systems, specifically addressing the boundaries of acceptable discussion within the Physics Forums (PF). Users highlight that reactionless drives, including the EM Drive, are prohibited topics, while ion propulsion is recognized as a mainstream technology. The conversation emphasizes the importance of referencing published literature when seeking technical assistance and adhering to forum guidelines for productive discourse.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of alternative propulsion concepts, such as ion propulsion and pulsed microwave thrusters.
  • Familiarity with the Physics Forums guidelines and rules.
  • Knowledge of mainstream scientific literature and peer-reviewed articles.
  • Ability to differentiate between accepted propulsion technologies and those considered speculative or reactionless.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of ion propulsion technology and its applications in modern spacecraft.
  • Explore the current status of pulsed microwave thrusters and their scientific validation.
  • Learn how to effectively search for and evaluate peer-reviewed articles in propulsion science.
  • Study the guidelines of online science forums to enhance participation in technical discussions.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, aerospace enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the scientific principles behind propulsion technologies and their discussions in online forums.

JarodY
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How did you find PF?: Google

Hi folks! Title sums it up pretty well. Alternative propulsion is cool, despite the amount of woo that tends to permeate the topic. I enjoy finding first-principles solutions for far-out claims.
 
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JarodY said:
How did you find PF?: Google

Hi folks! Title sums it up pretty well. Alternative propulsion is cool, despite the amount of woo that tends to permeate the topic. I enjoy finding first-principles solutions for far-out claims.
Welcome to PF, Jarod. :smile:

Be sure to read the PF rules that you agreed to (see INFO at the top of the page). Reactionless Drives and similar are on the forbidden topics list. Be sure that any topics you want to discuss here are published in the mainstream literature, and please always include links to your reading when asking technical questions. Thank you, and enjoy PF! :smile:
 
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berkeman said:
Welcome to PF, Jarod. :smile:

Be sure to read the PF rules that you agreed to (see INFO at the top of the page). Reactionless Drives and similar are on the forbidden topics list. Be sure that any topics you want to discuss here are published in the mainstream literature, and please always include links to your reading when asking technical questions. Thank you, and enjoy PF! :smile:
Do ionic thrusters or pulsed microwave thrusters fall under the 'similar' category? Also, if what I was looking for was in the published literature, I wouldn't need to resort to asking for help on forums, right?
 
JarodY said:
Do ionic thrusters or pulsed microwave thrusters fall under the 'similar' category?
Ion propulsion is being done. It's solidly mainstream. Pulsed microwave...not sure. If you mean EM Drive, then yes, that's reactionless and banned.
Also, if what I was looking for was in the published literature, I wouldn't need to resort to asking for help on forums, right?
The vast majority of the population doesn't know/understand the current state of the art. That's predominantly who this forum is for. It is not here for original research publication. That's what journals are for.

I do suggest that if you haven't really read the guidelines you should do so. They're pretty clear.
 
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JarodY said:
pulsed microwave thrusters fall under the 'similar' category?
I don't know. Is that like "laser propulsion"? (which is fine) Can you post a link?

JarodY said:
also, if what I was looking for was in the published literature, I wouldn't need to resort to asking for help on forums, right?
It depends on how comfortable and practiced you are at finding reliable technical links. We have some tips in the PF Rules for where to look for reliable peer-reviewed articles (like T/R), and of course we are happy to help you find good links. We are all about helping folks learn mainstream science.

I'll move this thread from the New Member Introduction forum to an Engineering forum for now. :smile:
 

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