Where Can I Find Current Research on Breakthrough Propulsion Physics?

[Blue3992]

First-time poster here, so I apologize if this is in the wrong forum, or if it has already been discussed. In other words, go easy on me………

I’m interested in advances in physics that can be used as new power sources for spacecraft . NASA had a program, called the Breakthrough Propulsion Physics (BPP) program, that supported research into emerging areas of physics that could be used to power future spacecraft . A summary of their goals is below.

The program was canceled around 2002. I like the whole concept, because it sounded like it was going to be a “clearinghouse” of scientific papers and other work dealing with advances in physics related to space travel. I could follow these advances, without having to wade across the web, and dig through all of the half-baked ideas.

Like I said though, the program was cancelled. Are there any other sites out there that tracks papers and research that is applicable to future space travel?

As its name suggests, the Breakthrough Propulsion Physics Project is specifically looking for propulsion breakthroughs from physics. It is not looking for further technological refinements of existing methods. Such refinements are being explored in other projects under the ASTP. Instead, this project looks beyond existing methods, searching for further advances in science from which genuinely new technology can emerge - technology to surpass the limits of existing methods. Topics of interest include experiments and theories regarding the coupling of gravity and electromagnetism, vacuum fluctuation energy, warp drives and wormholes, and superluminal quantum effects. Because these propulsion goals are presumably far from fruition, a special emphasis of the project is to identify and support affordable, near-term, and credible research that will make incremental progress toward these propulsion goals.

 

[ubavontuba]

Blue3992,

Yes. The http://niac.usra.edu (NIAC) is an excellent resource. Not only do they explore advanced propulsion concepts, but they also explore lots of interesting studies concerning the future goals of NASA. My personal favorite study is the Magbeam Propulsion System (look in the "Funded Studies" area).

Another resource is Centauri Dreams. This site is linked with the Interstellar Flight Foundation of which Marc Millis (of the NASA BPP project) is a founding member.

 

[sir-pinski]

Thank you for sharing your interest in breakthrough propulsion physics. It is unfortunate that the BPP program was cancelled, as it seemed like a valuable resource for tracking advancements in this field. However, there are still other sources available for staying informed about developments in physics for space travel.

One option is to follow scientific journals and publications that focus on space exploration and propulsion, such as the Journal of Propulsion and Power or the Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets. These publications often feature articles and studies on cutting-edge research in this area.

Another option is to follow organizations and companies that are actively working on breakthrough propulsion technologies, such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic. These companies often share updates and progress on their websites and social media platforms.

Additionally, there are online communities and forums dedicated to discussing and sharing information about breakthrough propulsion physics. These can be a great resource for connecting with others who share your interest and staying up to date on the latest developments.

Overall, while the BPP program may no longer be active, there are still plenty of resources available for staying informed about breakthrough propulsion physics. I hope you continue to explore and learn about this exciting field.