Is the existence of a Dyson Sphere impossible?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of constructing a monolithic Dyson Sphere and explores the concept of a Dyson Swarm as a potentially superior alternative. A monolithic Dyson Sphere is deemed impossible with current materials due to the lack of moving parts, while a Dyson Balloon, which utilizes solar radiation pressure, presents a theoretical solution. This balloon would require active control to maintain its position around a star, effectively creating a "leaky" Dyson Sphere that could harness energy while reducing the star's visibility to external civilizations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Dyson Sphere concepts and their implications in astrophysics
  • Familiarity with solar radiation pressure and its effects on structures
  • Knowledge of orbital mechanics and stabilization techniques
  • Basic principles of energy capture and utilization in astrophysical contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the engineering challenges of constructing a Dyson Sphere
  • Explore the mechanics of a Dyson Swarm and its advantages over a monolithic design
  • Investigate the concept of a Dyson Balloon and its operational requirements
  • Study the implications of energy harnessing on the detectability of stars by external civilizations
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, engineers, and science fiction enthusiasts interested in advanced energy capture technologies and their theoretical applications in space exploration.

HystereeSis
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Specifically a monolithic Dyson Sphere; also, how would a Dyson Swarm work / be a better option?
 
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HystereeSis said:
Is the existence of a Dyson Sphere impossible?
Not specifically, no.
HystereeSis said:
also, how would a Dyson Swarm work / be a better option?
Better option for what?

Is this a science fiction question?
 
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A monolithic Dyson sphere without moving parts wouldn't be possible with materials we know, but in principle you can stabilize it with fast-moving (faster than orbital velocity) components.
 
Perhaps one could make a Dyson Balloon inflated by solar radiation pressure around a star but there would have to be some sort of active control to keep the balloon centered around the star by manipulating the surface transmission/reflection coefficients to compensate for drift so it would amount to a leaky Dyson sphere. Of course one could not build structures on such a surface but it might go a long way towards Dyson's goal of using all (or most) of the star's energy and making the star less detectable to outside civilizations.
 
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