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Interstellar space biology via Project Starlight
Stephen Lantin1,2, Sophie Mendell3,4, Ghassan Akkad3
1Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, 32611, FL, USA.
Acta Astronautica
|January 30, 2023
Summary
The NASA Starlight program proposes using directed-energy propulsion for relativistic spacecraft, enabling interstellar exploration and the expansion of life beyond Earth. This research examines the biological and ethical challenges of sending life to the stars.
Area of Science:
- Astrobiology
- Space Exploration
- Directed-Energy Propulsion
Background:
- Current space exploration is limited to the solar system.
- Directed-energy propulsion offers a novel method for interstellar travel.
- Miniaturized spacecraft can carry biological payloads.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the biological and technological challenges of interstellar space biology.
- To investigate the potential for transporting life beyond our solar system.
- To address planetary protection and ethical considerations.
Main Methods:
- Focus on radiation-tolerant microorganisms.
- Investigate organisms capable of cryptobiosis.
- Analyze challenges of directed-energy propulsion for interstellar missions.
Main Results:
- Relativistic spacecraft can be propelled by directed energy.
- Microorganisms with cryptobiosis offer potential for interstellar travel.
- Challenges include radiation tolerance and long-duration survival.
Conclusions:
- Interstellar travel and expansion of life are feasible with advanced propulsion.
- Radiation-tolerant microorganisms are key to interstellar biology.
- Ethical and planetary protection frameworks are crucial for interstellar missions.
Keywords:
CryptobiosisDirected energy propulsionInterstellar propulsionNASA starlightPlanetary protectionSpace biologyMore Related Videos
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