Unstable Equilibrium Hypothesis: A Consideration of Ultra-Relativistic and Faster than Light Interstellar Spaceflight
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K. F. Long (2016), JBIS, 69, pp.97-101
Refcode: 2016.69.97
Keywords: Interstellar studies, Special relativity
Abstract:
This paper discusses the possibility of both ultra-relativistic and faster than light travel in the context of the special theory of relativity and using analogues from classical thermodynamics. It is postulated that both travel propositions may represent unstable equilibrium scenarios in terms of stable galactic civilisations, because of the existence of a non-tractable temporal spaghettification due to time dilation and an exponential expansion based spatial runaway effect. This implies that any civilisations emerging within the galaxy may be limited to low transport speeds which has implications for galactic diffusion and the migration of extraterrestrial civilisations. No claims are made that ultra-relativistic or faster than light flight are not possible, but we merely suggest conditions where they may not be practical.
