Is Magnetic Propulsion the Key to Space Travel?

In summary, the conversation is about the possibility of using magnetic force for propulsion and travel through space. The person asking the questions has limited knowledge in science and resources. They question whether it would be possible to use magnetic force to accelerate a shuttle in space or on Earth, and whether gravity would affect the acceleration in space. They also wonder if transportation to space could be achieved through increased magnetism. The expert responds that propulsion via magnetic force is possible and gives examples such as maglev trains and rail guns. They also suggest that the person should understand the concept of acceleration in order to better understand the topic.
  • #1
joe dirt
I have a question/question's. first i have to admit i have no background in any science what so ever. limited education, and limited resourses.

that being said my question/questions are.

is propulsion via a magnetic force possible?

would it make travel through space possible?

would you be able to go from a stationary position ither in space or on earth/ moon even, to an excellerated speed to travel great distances?

imagine if you wish being inside a magnet, being placed inside a megnetic field you are held in one spot by the forces applied to you, now if that magnetic field was let's say a tube of sorts, and we were a shuttel inside the magnetic field, could u not use the forces to be able to propel your self foreward?

ok so we have gravity here on Earth that could make for some interesting affects, but in space there is no or limited gravity, so there for if we used this for propulsion would u feal the affects of gravity going from a zero start to an excelerated speed?

basicly would u be like a squashed fly on the wall once the shuttel was propelled foreward?

could transportation to space be achieved by a magnetic force? ither increasing the magnetisim or what have u?

thanks in advance and thanks for not laughing lol
 
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  • #2
I have little technical information stored in my brain, but I believe ion rocket engines will operate in the manor you have brought up.
Ron
 
  • #3
joe dirt said:
is propulsion via a magnetic force possible?

Yeah, of course...maglev trains, electric cars, gauss guns and rail guns are good examples.
 
  • #4
Propulsion via magnetic force. Google "Rail gun."

And when you say "excellerated speeed," you reveal so many levels of unawareness of physics that you are guaranteed to not understand (right away) much of what can be said on the topic.

Try to understand what "acceleration" means, and this will help a tremendous amount in undertanding this topic which intrigues you.

And it's "you," not "u."
 

1. What is magnetic propulsion?

Magnetic propulsion is a form of propulsion that uses magnetic fields to accelerate and propel objects, such as spacecraft, through space. It works by creating a force between two magnets, one on the spacecraft and one on a fixed object, which propels the spacecraft forward.

2. How does magnetic propulsion work?

Magnetic propulsion works by using the principles of electromagnetism. The spacecraft is equipped with a large magnetic coil, which is energized by a power source. As the coil is energized, it creates a magnetic field that interacts with the Earth's magnetic field, creating a force that propels the spacecraft forward. This force is known as the Lorentz force.

3. What are the advantages of magnetic propulsion for space travel?

Magnetic propulsion has several advantages for space travel. It is highly efficient, as it does not require any propellant to be carried onboard the spacecraft. This means that the spacecraft can travel longer distances without needing to refuel. Additionally, magnetic propulsion can achieve very high speeds, making it a promising option for interstellar travel.

4. Are there any potential drawbacks to using magnetic propulsion for space travel?

One potential drawback of magnetic propulsion is that it is currently not powerful enough to propel large spacecraft. This means that it is more suited for small, lightweight spacecraft. Additionally, magnetic propulsion requires a strong magnetic field, which could be harmful to humans if they are exposed to it for long periods of time.

5. Is magnetic propulsion currently being used for space travel?

While there have been some successful tests and demonstrations of magnetic propulsion, it is not currently being used for space travel. More research and development is needed to improve the technology and make it a viable option for space travel. However, it shows great potential for the future of space exploration.

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