Reaching for the Stars: The Past and Future of Interstellar Flight
- Paper number
IAC-06-D3.2.08
- Author
Mr. John C. Mankins, ARTEMIS Innovation Management Solutions, LLC, United States
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Reaching the stars has long been the subject of science fiction stories. However, in the mid-1990s, the then-NASA Administrator challenged NASA's technologists to advance new approaches to this enormous challenge. What progress has been made, if any, in the key technologies and systems concepts that could enable interstellar flight during the coming century? The following paper will provide a review of past concepts for achieving the seemingly impossible vision of interstellar flight--first for robotic probes, and eventually for human mission. The paper will also examine options for new concepts in this area--particularly those that might establish infrastructure-based stepping stones, that could show value for intra-solar system exploration and development while laying the groundwork for eventual extra-solar system missions. The paper will conclude with a summary view of the technical challenges, and technology options associated with various types of interstellar--and ambitious intra-solar system--transportation options.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-D3.2.08.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.