Reactionless Drive Using Light Bouncing Off Moving Mirrors

In summary, the conversation discusses a concept for a reactionless drive involving a light pulse bouncing between two mirrors that are oscillating at relativistic speeds. The wavelength of the light is red shifted in the mirror on the left and blue shifted in the mirror on the right, leading to a net momentum change that could potentially impact the setup. However, the discussion is not allowed on the forum due to the forum rules.
  • #1
alas666
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Poster has been reminded that we do not allow discussions about Reactionless Drives
TL;DR Summary
reactionless drive, relativistic Doppler, reflection from moving mirror
Here is a concept suggesting reactionless drive:

Setup: A light pulse of wavelength l0 bouncing between 2 mirrors one on the left - ML and one on the right - MR. Each mirror oscillates perpendicularly to light travel direction attaining relativistic speeds vl, vr. Light pulse is timed so it reflects from the ML, moving with vl, when it is moving in the same direction as light pulse, while reflection from MR happens when vr opposes light direction.

Analysis: The reflecting photon momentum change is dp = 2h/l. The wavelength lL=l0((1+vl/c)/(1-vl/c))^-1 is red shifted in ML reference frame, while MR wavelength IR = l0*((1-vl/c)/(1+vl/c))^-1 is blue shifted, as per wikipedia relativistic Doppler effect. The traveling light is changing a wavelength at each reflection in setup reference frame: lL = l0 (1-(vl/c)^2)/(1-2vl/c+(vl/c)^2) - red shifted, IR = I0 (1-(vr/c)^2)/(1+2vr/c+(vr/c)^2) - blue shifted (see https://arxiv.org/pdf/1207.0998.pdf). To maintain wavelength unchanged after 2 bounces one have to assure that vl, vr selected correctly.

Conclusion: Because change of the momentum in mirror reference frame is different for MR and ML there is a resulting net momentum change impacting setup.

where have I wronged ?
 
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  • #2
alas666 said:
where have I wronged ?
A. Thinking that PF ios a good place to discuss personal theories.
B. Thinking momentum is not conserved.
 
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  • #3
alas666 said:
Summary:: reactionless drive, relativistic Doppler, reflection from moving mirror

Here is a concept suggesting reactionless drive:
Per the PF Rules (see INFO at the top of the page), we do not discuss reactionless drives. Thread is closed.

Forbidden Topics said:
EMDrive and other reactionless drives
See https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/nasas-em-drive.884753/
 

FAQ: Reactionless Drive Using Light Bouncing Off Moving Mirrors

What is a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors?

A reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors is a theoretical propulsion system that proposes using the momentum of photons bouncing between two moving mirrors to generate thrust without any reaction mass. This concept is based on the principles of conservation of momentum and the photon's momentum being transferred to the mirrors.

How does a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors work?

The drive works by using two parallel mirrors that are constantly moving in opposite directions. Photons are emitted from a source and bounce back and forth between the mirrors, transferring their momentum to the mirrors and creating thrust in the desired direction. This thrust is generated without the need for any reaction mass, making it a potentially revolutionary propulsion system.

What are the potential applications of a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors?

If successfully developed, this type of propulsion system could have a wide range of applications in space travel. It could potentially be used for long-distance space travel, as it does not require the use of traditional fuel sources and could therefore greatly extend the range of spacecraft. It could also be used for more efficient maneuvering and positioning of satellites and other spacecraft.

What are the challenges of developing a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors?

One of the main challenges is the practicality of implementing this concept. The mirrors would need to be constantly moving at high speeds, which would require a significant amount of energy. Additionally, the mirrors would need to be perfectly aligned and synchronized in order to create a stable thrust. There are also currently no materials that could withstand the high temperatures and pressures that would be generated in this type of propulsion system.

Is a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors scientifically possible?

At this point, the concept of a reactionless drive using light bouncing off moving mirrors is still highly theoretical and has not been proven to be scientifically possible. While the principles behind it are based on well-established laws of physics, there are still many technical and practical challenges that would need to be overcome in order to make it a reality. Further research and development is needed to determine the feasibility of this type of propulsion system.

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