What is the maximal comoving distance that a space probe can reach?

  • #1
Omega Force
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What is the maximal comoving distance that a probe can reach depending on its speed?

If the probe travels at light speed, the maximal comoving distance that it can reach is 5 Mpc, which is called the cosmic event horizon. But what if it travels at some other speed?
 
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Omega Force said:
If the probe travels at light speed, the maximal comoving distance that it can reach is 5 Mpc, which is called the cosmic event horizon. But what if it travels at some other speed?
If we designate the distance to the event horizon as ##D_{eh}## (which, by the way, is not 5 Mpc, but about 5 Gpc), then the maximal comoving distance that can be reached at speed ##v## is ##\frac {v}{c} D_{eh}##
 
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FAQ: What is the maximal comoving distance that a space probe can reach?

What is comoving distance?

Comoving distance is a measure of the distance between two points in the universe that accounts for the expansion of the universe. It is a way to express distances in cosmology that remains constant over time, allowing astronomers to compare distances at different epochs without the complications of cosmic expansion.

What factors limit the maximal comoving distance a space probe can reach?

The maximal comoving distance a space probe can reach is limited by several factors, including the probe's propulsion system, fuel capacity, mission design, and the time available for travel. Additionally, the expansion of the universe means that distant objects are receding from us, which can complicate the ability to reach them within a reasonable timeframe.

How does the expansion of the universe affect space probes?

The expansion of the universe affects space probes by increasing the distance between them and distant celestial objects over time. As space itself expands, objects that are very far away may recede faster than the speed of light due to this expansion, making it impossible for a probe to ever reach them, regardless of its speed.

Can we send probes to other galaxies?

While theoretically possible, sending probes to other galaxies presents immense challenges, including the vast distances involved and the limitations of current propulsion technology. Even at the speed of light, it would take millions of years to reach the nearest galaxy, Andromeda, making such missions impractical with our current capabilities.

What is the furthest distance any human-made object has traveled?

The furthest distance any human-made object has traveled is the Voyager 1 spacecraft, which has reached the edge of our solar system and is currently over 14 billion miles (over 22 billion kilometers) from Earth. While it is still within the gravitational influence of the Milky Way galaxy, it is not yet at a comoving distance that would allow it to reach other galaxies.

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