Interstellar probe to Terra: ---------------------------- "Crazy Eddie Probe" Plan: Send a probe to the Terran system to report back. Needed: Body/framework/shielding (durable enough to last ~5-6 years) Engine/propulsion system (high efficiency) Fuel (sufficent to reach approx 0.9c) Navigation system (reliable enough to last ~5-6 years) Sensor array (can be deployed upon arrival) Communication system (strong enough to beam back to Ridena) (Encryption, authentication of signal, can avoid/burn through jamming) Lightsail (for deceleration upon arrival) Redundant systems for above? Trip phases: ------------ Acceleration Coast Deceleration Maneuver around Terra Trip plan: ---------- 1) Launch probe from around Ridena jumpgate. Use disposable boosters and/or assist from Hippocrates for initial speed. 2) Accelerate to approx 0.9c. 3) During journey to Terra: Navigation avoids large objects, adjusts trajectory as needed 4) Upon nearing Terra system: Use any extra fuel (above reserves needed to maneuver around system) to decelerate. Deploy lightsail to complete slowdown. 5) Explore planets in system, starting with planets in habitable zone. 6) Report back to Ridena. Fuel notes: ----------- 4 sources of fuel: Disposable boosters (acceleration phase) Onboard fuel (all phases) Light sail (deceleration phase, manuever phase?) Hydrogen collector? (coast phase) Hypothetical launch procedure: ------------------------------ 1) Hippocrates accelerates for one day from Ridena jumpgate towards Terra. 2) Final systems check of probe. 3) Check that flight path is clear. 4) Deploy probe, fire probe boosters. 5) Hippocrates coasts, monitors probe for reasonable amount of time, returns to jumpgate.