Relativistic Flight Mechanics and Space TravelRelativistic Flight Mechanics and Space Travel is about the fascinating prospect of future human space travel. Its purpose is to demonstrate that such ventures may not be as difficult as one might believe and are certainly not impossible. The foundations for relativistic flight mechanics are provided in a clear and instructive manner by using well established principles which are used to explore space flight possibilities within and beyond our galaxy. The main substance of the book begins with a background review of Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity as it pertains to relativistic flight mechanics and space travel. The book explores the dynamics and kinematics of relativistic space flight from the point of view of the astronauts in the spacecraft and compares these with those observed by earth's scientists and engineers-differences that are quite surprising. A quasi historical treatment leads quite naturally into the central subject areas of the book where attention is focused on various issues not ordinarily covered by such treatment. To accomplish this, numerous simple thought experiments are used to bring rather complicated subject matter down to a level easily understood by most readers with an engineering or science background. The primary subjects regarding photon rocketry and space travel are covered in some depth and include a flight plan together with numerous calculations represented in graphical form. A geometric treatment of relativistic effects by using Minkowski diagrams is included for completeness. The book concludes with brief discussions of other prospective, even exotic, transport systems for relativistic space travel. A glossary and simple end-of-chapter problems with answers enhance the learning process. |
Contents
Introduction | 2 |
Background | 5 |
Relativistic Rocket Mechanics | 33 |
Space Travel and the Photon Rocket | 59 |
Minkowski Diagrams KCalculus and Relativistic Effects | 83 |
Other Prospective Transport Systems for Relativistic Space Travel | 95 |
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Common terms and phrases
acceleration Answer approaches assume astronauts becomes calculated Chapter classical clocks compared consider constant contraction conversion destination determined dilation direction discussed distance earth effect efficiency efflux efflux velocity energy equal equation example exist experiment expressed factor force frame frequency fuel mass function galaxies given gives gravitational increasing inertial initial interstellar journey known Lt Yr mass ratio matter means measured mechanics motion moving Note object observer particles photon plot possible present produced proper Einstein number proper velocity propulsion systems quantities radiation ratio reach reaction redshift relative relativistic velocities respectively rest rocket rocket equation showing space travel spacecraft spaceship special relativity specific speed of light star Table theory thought thrust trip units universe ve/c velocity of light warp drive