Spacecraft propulsion includes various methods for accelerating and decelerating in Earth’s atmosphere or outer space. Solid and liquid fuel systems have been used historically, while future systems may use nuclear, electromagnetic, or ion technology. Solid fuel systems are less volatile but cannot be turned off, while liquid fuel systems use an oxidizer to ignite and […]
Interstellar spacecraft have been built, but current technology limits their speed. Nuclear and solar sails are feasible options, while antimatter and electromagnetic launchers require more advanced technology. A nuclear pulse propulsion design could reach 10% of the speed of light, while antimatter and electromagnetic launchers could reach closer to the speed of light, but face […]
The Galileo spacecraft was an unmanned probe sent to study Jupiter and its moons. It was launched in 1989 and made several flybys before arriving at Jupiter in 1995. Galileo orbited Jupiter, made close flybys of its moons, and sent the first probe into its atmosphere. It discovered the first lunar asteroid and strongly suggested […]
Interstellar spacecraft require advanced propulsion and navigation systems due to the vast distances between star systems. Solid-fuel chemical rockets are insufficient, and new methods of propulsion must be devised. The psychological well-being of occupants during the journey is also a challenge. Proposed designs include Project Orion, the Bussard ramjet, and the solar sail. Other designs, […]
