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Module 4 - The Future of Space Travel
NASA is responsible for numerous innovations and breakthroughs in exploring our universe, but there is still a long way to go. Today, the discoveries continue. New findings lead to greater goals and fuel new design efforts. In this module you will learn about some innovations in space travel, and glimpse into what might be the next generation of space travel.
Concept Prometheus shuttle
Assignment
Using the links provided, answer the following questions.
1) Prometheus system
- List the two types of propulsion technologies currently used.
- What type of propulsion technology does the Prometheus system use?
- What benefit would the Prometheus system provide?
2) Warp Drive
- What are the three big challenges to space travel this link discusses?
- How long would it take for a ship, traveling 37-thousand miles-per-hour, to reach our nearest neighboring star?
- What is an "Astronomical Unit (AU)".
3) Space Elevators
- What is a space elevator?
- What is the prize for winning the climber competition? (Click on the Competition link, then 2006 Climber Competition)
- What is the minimum speed a climber must achieve?
- Why might NASA fund this type of competition? What use could it have? (Your response should be based on your opinion after visiting all of the links)
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