The Alcubierre drive (or Alcubierre metric see: Metric tensor) is a speculative idea based on a valid solution of Einstein's field equations as proposed by Miguel Alcubierre, by which a spacecraft may achieve faster-than-light travel, making travel to other stars more feasible. It is impossible for objects to actually accelerate to the speed of light within normal spacetime. However, rather than exceeding the speed of light within its local frame of reference, the ship would traverse distances by contracting space in front of it and expanding space behind it, allowing it to effectively move faster than light. The proposed mechanism implies a negative density of energy and thus requires exotic matter.
Read more about Alcubierre Drive: History, Alcubierre Metric, Mathematics of The Alcubierre Drive, Physics, Difficulties, In Science Fiction
Famous quotes containing the word drive:
“Practically everyone now bemoans Western man’s sense of alienation, lack of community, and inability to find ways of organizing society for human ends. We have reached the end of the road that is built on the set of traits held out for male identity—advance at any cost, pay any price, drive out all competitors, and kill them if necessary.”
—Jean Baker Miller (20th century)