Getting the speed - how we get there in reasonable time per.

Echo · 2003-06-27 18:55:58

getting off earth (preferable the moon) is a challenge all on it's own, then the propultion method can be debated all you like, but the main thing here, is getting to the destination within a reasonable time period. new here, so not sure if this has been posted before, if it has sorry for the repitition.

any ideas on the speed necessary, that won't kill humans, and the time it would take to get there. i believe that if we accellerate at a constant force of 1g (earth grav.) the human body can take that force (as we do everyday) and gain sufficient speed to reach Mars within a relatively short time. (excuse if this sounds a bit off, not quite sure on the tech. way of saying this, if you need clarification, ill do my best)

Shaun Barrett · 2003-06-27 19:50:20

Welcome, Echo!
Your idea of sending humans to Mars at a steady acceleration of 1g is theoretically ideal. You could wait until Earth and Mars are on the same side of the Sun and just head straight for Mars - no elliptical paths necessary.
At 1g, we could accelerate for 21 hours, stop the engines, rotate the craft 180 degrees, and then decelerate for a further 21 hours ... arriving at Mars after only 42 hours travel time. There would be no question of bone loss or muscle wastage because 'gravity' on board would be normal and the trip too short.
We actually discussed such a transport system elsewhere here at New Mars (last year, I think) and found it would get us to Saturn in a matter of days. Fantastic!

If only it were possible.

At present, though, we have no propulsion method which would deliver such performance for such a length of time.
Such a pity! {Sigh.}

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#1 2003-06-27 18:55:58

Re: Getting the speed - how we get there in reasonable time per.

#2 2003-06-27 19:50:20

Re: Getting the speed - how we get there in reasonable time per.

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