Lightspeed Travel: Is It Possible?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of a spaceship detaching from the fabric of space-time and traveling at a speed less than c through a spherical ripple before reforming at a distance. This concept is similar to the Alcubierre space warp and falls under the category of "metric engineering" approaches within general relativity. The conversation also mentions the potential of exploiting holes in the "loop" of relativity.
  • #1
Reflector
50
0
Would this be possible - a spaceship detaches from the fabric or space-time sending a spherical ripple traveling at c which reforms at a diameter's distance bringing the space-ship back into being there. Because the ripple travels a longer distance than the space-ship, the spaceship would travel less than c so it wouldn't violate relativity.
 
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  • #2
Basically a refinement of this idea is the Alcubierre space warp, one of a variety of suggestive but not yet practical "metric engineering" approaches within general relativity.
 
  • #3
Holes Able To Be Exploited In "The Loop" Of Relativity

Yes, I believe your idea to be possible.

Good luck proving it but!
 

1. Can objects really travel at the speed of light?

The theory of relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein, states that nothing can travel faster than the speed of light. As we approach the speed of light, the amount of energy required to accelerate an object increases exponentially. This makes it impossible for objects with mass to reach the speed of light. However, particles without mass, such as photons, can travel at the speed of light.

2. How close have we come to achieving lightspeed travel?

Currently, the fastest man-made object is the Parker Solar Probe, which can reach speeds of up to 430,000 miles per hour. This is only about 0.064% of the speed of light. Scientists are constantly working on improving propulsion systems and developing new technologies in hopes of one day achieving speeds closer to the speed of light.

3. Is there a limit to how fast we can travel?

According to the theory of relativity, the speed of light is the ultimate speed limit in the universe. This means that no matter how advanced our technology becomes, it is unlikely that we will ever be able to travel at the speed of light. However, scientists are still exploring ways to potentially circumvent this limit through concepts such as wormholes and warp drives.

4. What are the potential implications of lightspeed travel?

If we were able to achieve lightspeed travel, it would revolutionize space exploration and potentially open up new possibilities for interstellar travel. It could also have major implications for time travel, as the closer we approach the speed of light, the more time dilation occurs, meaning time would appear to slow down for the travelers compared to those on Earth.

5. Are there any risks or challenges associated with lightspeed travel?

One major challenge is the immense amount of energy required to achieve lightspeed. Additionally, any small miscalculations or errors in navigation at such high speeds could lead to disastrous consequences. There are also potential health risks for travelers, as the intense radiation and high speeds could have detrimental effects on the human body. These challenges would need to be carefully considered and addressed before lightspeed travel could become a reality.

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