Maximizing Momentum Transfer in Space Ships: A Guide for Optimal Performance

In summary: EM pulse that compresses the gas. That compression would force the gas to the right, against its natural tendency to flow to the left. That extra momentum would then be absorbed by the second device, which would cause it to recoil to the right.
  • #1
Intuitive
270
0
Could something like this be used for a momentum Tranfer in Space Ships?:bugeye:
If so, Then how could we improve upon it?
If not then kindly disregard this post.
Maximize for better reading.
 

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  • #2
I can't tell from the picture what the thing is supposed to do...

But unless you dump mass, you're not going to get any momentum imparted to the spacecraft .

[tex]\Sigma_{i=0}^n m_i*V_i=0[/tex]

or, momentum is conserved
 
  • #3
enigma said:
I can't tell from the picture what the thing is supposed to do...

But unless you dump mass, you're not going to get any momentum imparted to the spacecraft .

[tex]\Sigma_{i=0}^n m_i*V_i=0[/tex]

or, momentum is conserved

It probably wouldn't work, but this was the plot.

1. Coil #1 fires off an EM Pulse that compresses the Diamagnetic Plasma Gas towords Coil #2 which prevents the Gas from Exiting, The Field from Coil #2 acts as an EM Barrier causing the Plasma Gas to be blocked which would probably force the Momentum of the Gas to be transferred to the Field Barrier of Coil #2, Coil #1 Fires off a very Rapid Strong EM Pulse that expands rapidly then is turned off until the next firing Pulse Charge is restored, The Gas will flow back to Coil #1 via Vacuum Suction then Coil #1 is refired with as many Joules of energy possible to recompress the Gas back to Coil #2.

I was hoping that the Compression and Decompression of the Gases Velocity difference, If any, Would cause a momentum transfer difference to make the unit travel in a linear direction in a Zero Gravity enviroment.

I had in mind that Equal and opposite forces may cancel the Momentum transfer and be conserved but I thought I would ask about it before throwing it out the window in case it had any potential.

Thanks for your time.
 
  • #4
But unless you dump mass, you're not going to get any momentum imparted to the spacecraft .

Wouldn't dumping energy already near light speed be better than dumping mass (over the long run)?

I would think that dumping huge amounts of Energy on a repulsive surface would propel a craft if the Craft was highly Diamagnetic, I Myself think that using EMPs to squeeze Diamagnetic Surfaces could have very good results if the proper amount of Energy was used The Diamagnetic surface would try to repel away from an EMP( Shaped Charged EMPs against a Diamagnetic Surface), What do you think?

I know that if there is not a lot of energy to play with then it would take a rather long time to acquire super high velocities to a mass object but even then such slowness to gain velocity may over take all the rocket engines ever put into space over time if the output is always at Light speed with Energy that can be recharged over intervals of flight, ie, High Density Capacitor Banks and some Flight recharge System collecting Electrons and or EM from Space to refill the Cap Banks for another pop.

What could we do?
 
  • #5
Intuitive said:
It probably wouldn't work, but this was the plot.

1. Coil #1 fires off an EM Pulse that compresses the Diamagnetic Plasma Gas towords Coil #2 which prevents the Gas from Exiting,
When coil#1 pushes the gas to the right (towards coil#2), it must recoil to the left. When the momentum of the gas is absorbed by coil#2, it recoils to the right.

You've designed an oscillator, not a propulsion drive.
 
  • #6
Another thought on momentum transfer to add littles bits of momentum over time.

Would something like this work?

There is an additional zoom after maximizing the page to sharpen the image, Hover mouse over the image to get the zoom button to appear.
 

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  • #7
The ball bearings will impart momentum to the circular tube in the opposite direction to travel, since they are accelerated - change in direction and presumably with some change in velocity.

Think of the components of velocity and the centripetal force in the circular track.

And, please don't get discouraged.
 
  • #8
Intuitive : your designs suffer from the fundamental flaw that momentum conservation applied to the entire system (drive + craft) prevents it from getting anywhere unless there is momentum ejection out of system. This is what enigma tried to bring to your attention.

In other words, you are trying to power a sailboat with an onboard fan.
 
  • #9
Gokul43201 said:
Intuitive : your designs suffer from the fundamental flaw that momentum conservation applied to the entire system (drive + craft) prevents it from getting anywhere unless there is momentum ejection out of system. This is what enigma tried to bring to your attention.

In other words, you are trying to power a sailboat with an onboard fan.

Back to EMPs and Solar Sails I guess.
Thanks:bugeye:
 
  • #10
Intuitive said:
Wouldn't dumping energy already near light speed be better than dumping mass (over the long run)?
Actually, yes, in theory a laser could be used as a propulsion device. But your device doesn't dump energy linearly.
 

1. What is momentum transfer in space ships?

Momentum transfer in space ships refers to the transfer of momentum or force between two objects in space. This is important for space ships as it allows them to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction while in motion.

2. Why is maximizing momentum transfer important for space ships?

Maximizing momentum transfer is important for space ships because it allows them to efficiently use their fuel and energy to achieve optimal performance. It also helps them to navigate through space and overcome obstacles such as gravitational pull from planets and other celestial bodies.

3. How can momentum transfer be maximized in space ships?

There are several ways to maximize momentum transfer in space ships. Some techniques include using thrust vectoring, gravity assists from other celestial bodies, and minimizing air resistance by using streamlined designs. Additionally, precise calculations and adjustments to speed and direction can also help maximize momentum transfer.

4. What are the potential challenges in maximizing momentum transfer in space ships?

One of the main challenges in maximizing momentum transfer in space ships is the limited amount of fuel and energy available. This means that calculations and adjustments must be accurate and precise in order to get the most out of the resources. Additionally, overcoming gravitational forces and other obstacles can also be challenging.

5. Are there any risks involved in maximizing momentum transfer in space ships?

While there are risks involved in any space exploration, maximizing momentum transfer does come with its own set of risks. These can include potential malfunctions in equipment, human error, and unexpected obstacles in space. However, with proper planning and precautions, these risks can be minimized.

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