Astronomer David Kipping has proposed TARS, a sunlight-driven space slingshot. Using reflective panels spun in space, it can fling small probes at escape speed. Though Alpha Centauri is over a thousand years away, this simple, fuel-free idea could pave the way for future interstellar missions.
Astronomer David Kipping has proposed TARS, a sunlight-driven space slingshot. Using reflective panels spun in space, it can fling small probes at escape speed. Though Alpha Centauri is over a thousand years away, this simple, fuel-free idea could pave the way for future interstellar missions.
