faster-than-light (FTL) travel
Although Einstein's special theory of relativity
insists that it is impossible to accelerate an object up to the speed
of light and beyond (see light barrier),
there has been no shortage of speculation on how ways may be found to circumvent
this natural speed restriction. First, Einstein's theory allows in principle
the creation of bizarre particles, known as tachyons,
that have speeds permanently greater than that of light. Second, an object
may be able to travel, apparently superluminally, between two far-flung
points in the cosmos, providing it does not make the journey through conventional
space-time. This opens up the possibility
of using space-time gateways and tunnels, known as wormholes,
as a means to circumvent the normal relativistic constraints.
Related categories
• ADVANCED
PROPULSION CONCEPTS
• SPACE
AND TIME
Also on this site:
Encyclopedia
of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia
of History
BACK TO TOP
|
