I'm a big fan of interstellar exploration. I think this is one of the most exciting and inspiring endeavors that humanity can pursue.
Imagine visiting other worlds, discovering new life forms, and maybe even finding another terrestrial planet in the vastness of space. How cool is that?
But I'm also a realist and know that interstellar travel isn't about walking in a park. It's more like walking through a minefield. There are so many challenges and risks in space, I wonder if we will be able to visit other worlds.
The closest star system to us is Alpha Centauri, which is about 437 light years. This means that light, the fastest object in the universe, takes more than four years to get there.
The propagation of light does not require fuel, food, or oxygen.
The fastest spacecraft launched by humans was NASA's New Horizons probe, which reached a speed of about 58,000 km-h when it flew by Pluto in 2015.
At this rate, it would take about 78,000 years to reach Alpha Centauri. Not very suitable for round trips.
With better technology, we can fly faster, but there is a limit to how far we can push the laws of physics.
Even if we were to somehow reach 10% of the speed of light (which is far beyond our current capabilities), it would still take 43 years to reach Alpha Centauri.
Provided that we don't encounter any obstacles or dangers along the way.
Space is not empty. It is filled with dust, gases, cosmic rays, and other harmful materials that can damage or destroy spacecraft.
We don't yet have a detailed map of what is going on between the stars. We may encounter rogue planets, black holes, or supernovae without warning**.
Even if we manage to avoid all this,MessageThe problem still exists.
How do we stay in touch with Earth or other interstellar travelers?
Radio signals take years to travel to interstellar distances, and along the way they weaken and distort due to interference.
We need huge antennas and powerful transmitters to send and receive messages.
How do we stay alive and sane during such a long journey?How do we deal with loneliness, boredom, stress, and health issues?
How do we accept the fact that we may never see our home planet again, or that it may have changed beyond recognition by the time we return?
Scientists and engineers are trying to answer these questions through a variety of interstellar mission projects and proposals.
Some are more realistic than others, but none of them are easy or cheap.
They require decades of research and development, billions of dollars in funding, and tremendous courage and dedication.
I don't think so.
I think we should pursue both goals at the same time because they are important and valuable to humanity.
Exploring the solar system is not only more feasible and easier than interstellar travel, but also more relevant to our urgent needs and interests.
We can learn more about our own planet by studying our neighbors, and we can find new resources and opportunities for development and colonization. We can test and improve our technology and skills in the solar system to solve the challenges of the future.
Three minutes to talk about popular science