Skip to main content
Skip to article control options
No Access

Contemplating Relativistic and Warp Speeds: Feasible Matter/Anti-Matter Propulsion and the Novel Theoretical Possibility of Attaining Warp Speeds

AIAA 2021-4111
Session: Enabling Technologies: Miscellaneous I
Published Online:https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2021-4111
Abstract:

View Video Presentation: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2021-4111.vid

In Einstein’s general theory of relativity, it is posited that speeds greater than the speed of light are not attainable. In recently published mathematical work by Dr. Eric Lentz at the Gottingen Institute for Astrophysics in Germany (following on the theoretical work of Miguel Alcubierre and others), it is theorized that speeds greater than the speed of light are possible. The energies necessary to achieve such speeds are, based on Dr. Lentz’ work, monumental, and the physical mechanisms for achieving such speeds remain, at this point, speculative. With matter/anti-matter propulsion as a potentially feasible mechanism for approaching the speed of light, however, the possibility for acceleration toward warp speeds at the margin envelope is conceivable. Further theoretical work is needed to solve the Einstein field equations and, for plasma solitons, the Maxwell field equations, at the margin envelope of warp speed, assuming that matter/anti-matter propulsion can allow objects to approach the speed of light.