Surfing a Gravitational Wave: Is It Possible?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of using an Alcubierre drive to surf gravitational waves. Current physics does not support the idea that one can pulse the Alcubierre drive to catch up with a gravitational wave and then pulse again to stop. Participants express interest in the concept, with one member mentioning their engagement with Kip Thorne's lectures and literature on gravitational waves, despite lacking a physics background.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Alcubierre drive theory
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational waves
  • Familiarity with orbital mechanics
  • Interest in theoretical physics concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Kip Thorne's work on gravitational waves
  • Explore the principles of the Alcubierre drive
  • Study the mathematics of orbital mechanics
  • Investigate current theories in theoretical physics regarding warp drives
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for theoretical physicists, science fiction enthusiasts, and anyone interested in advanced concepts of space travel and gravitational wave phenomena.

Krasimir
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Is it possible to pulse Alcubiere drive once to catch up a gravitational wave to surf it, then pulse again to stop?
 
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Not according to our current understanding of the physics involved.
 
Nugatory said:
Not according to our current understanding of the physics involved.
Thank You for the reply Nugatory. I was guessing that would be the answer, although i was always thinking about orbital mechanics as "surfing the gravity". Its still a good idea about concept art or something :) Anyway i started watching lectures by Kip Thorne about the gravitational waves and got his book (for some reason i have deep interest in that matter although I am not physicist and i can't do the maths myself).
 

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