8.04.2009
i-Ramjet again
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Here's something about interstellar ramjets - it's a fun topic because relativistic effects play a large part of the experience of a hypopthetical crew, which might even see plaid geometric shapes from the viewports - juxtapose Spaceballs and 2001: A Space Odyssey and you get the Idea - outside the crystal diamond-fiber viewports (glass or quartz would fail).
Wow.
The concept is somewhat theoretical and is often bashed in favor of more experimental science, such as seeing if a solution of 50% 10W40 motor oil and sea water will cause a kelp plant to kick the bucket.
"Yes, after two weeks of writing in my journal, I noticed that the kelp was indeed, dead."
The iRamjet is probably a blind alley, unless someone can determine how to solve two big problems (1) Filter giant areas of void for loose H molecules using a bigger electromagnetic scoop (2) Determine how to power the scooper. After that, the craft and its ram engine need to be designed, but this is actually easier than the first two problems. Another problem is slowing down...otherwise it's like snowboarding on ice.
Nevertheless, it got play in Cosmos as the Spaceship of the Imagination(1980).
Then, you get a craft which might top 40% of light speed and might get up to 50% or 60% with some hotrodding.
Wow.
The concept is somewhat theoretical and is often bashed in favor of more experimental science, such as seeing if a solution of 50% 10W40 motor oil and sea water will cause a kelp plant to kick the bucket.
"Yes, after two weeks of writing in my journal, I noticed that the kelp was indeed, dead."
The iRamjet is probably a blind alley, unless someone can determine how to solve two big problems (1) Filter giant areas of void for loose H molecules using a bigger electromagnetic scoop (2) Determine how to power the scooper. After that, the craft and its ram engine need to be designed, but this is actually easier than the first two problems. Another problem is slowing down...otherwise it's like snowboarding on ice.
Nevertheless, it got play in Cosmos as the Spaceship of the Imagination(1980).
Then, you get a craft which might top 40% of light speed and might get up to 50% or 60% with some hotrodding.
