Ariel University Researchers Unveil Distributed, Quantum Mechanisms for Propulsion Without Rocket Thrust
In recent years, groundbreaking research has been gaining momentum in the field of relativistic engines – theoretical propulsion systems that utilize the principles of relativity to produce motion without the need for rocket fuel or traditional thrust. The field is led by Prof. Asher Yahalom from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Ariel University. As part of the International Conference on Existing Technologies in Air and Space, initiated by the Department of Aerospace Sciences at the Indian University of Karunya, an award was awarded to Professor Asher Yahalom for his development of the relativistic engine.
Relativistic engines rely on the Lorentz group – the group of transformations that describes the symmetry of space-time in the theory of special relativity. Equations that are symmetric under this group have solutions characterized by relativistic delay: changes in electromagnetic fields propagate through space at a finite speed (the speed of light), so that their effect on the components of the system is delayed in direct proportion to the distance between them. This delay creates an imbalance in the internal forces, which allows the system to acquire net mechanical momentum – and this without violating the law of conservation of energy or the law of conservation of momentum.
Early papers emphasized that in distributed systems (where parts are far apart), Newton's third law ("action-reaction force") does not fully apply. This imbalance allows the system to accelerate as a single system. However, in macroscopic prototypes, researchers encountered unexpected obstacles: electrical breakdowns due to too high charge density, and conduction limitations in ordinary conductors—even biconductors.
In 2023-2024, the research focus shifted to microscopic engines, which exploit the enormous charge and current densities naturally present in matter at the single-atom level. Here, unlike macroscopic systems, the enormous electric fields required for propulsion do not lead to electrical breakdown – a phenomenon that allows the practical limitations of previous models to be circumvented.
The year 2024 was characterized by three main advances. First, a quantum analysis of relativistic engines was conducted, with the understanding that on an atomic scale, classical physics is not sufficient and that the tools of quantum mechanics must be used. This study examined how quantum analysis affects the understanding of the engine, taking into account that there are different approaches in quantum mechanics (for example, Bohm's approach versus Ehrenfest's approach), and showed that under certain conditions (and according to certain approaches) quantum effects may even improve efficiency. Further progress was made in the development of time-dependent engines, operating at extremely high frequencies – mainly at microwave frequencies. Here it became clear that continuous current changes in short cycles allow for the creation of more significant momentum than in static systems. Finally, an innovative and relatively simple design was presented, based on a combination of magnetic materials and charged capacitors. This design eliminates the need for complex mediation systems and brings the field closer to experimental implementation at low costs. Research student Elad Dayan is currently working on implementing the system.
Despite the progress, researchers face major challenges at the atomic level. It is necessary to engineer a material with asymmetric molecules with very small distances of the electrons from the nuclei. Or alternatively, conductive materials in which the conduction electrons are at a small distance from the nuclei.
"The vision is compact propulsion systems for satellites, or even a car with vertical movement capability that will skip traffic jams," explains Prof. Asher Yahalom, who leads research in this field at Ariel University. "But we are still in the fundamentals stage – like the first transistors were in the 50s."
The research on relativistic engines, led by Prof. Asher Yahalom of Ariel University, illustrates how insights from relativity and quantum mechanics can spark technological revolutions. While the road to commercial applications is still long, 2024 will be remembered as the year in which the field underwent a revolution – from a theoretical mystery to a promising engineering field.
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Why are all the articles on the subject in MDPI journals and not in IEEE, ELSEVIER, PHYS REV LETTERS?
Maybe it's worth starting the article with an explanation of what a relativistic engine is.
Fascinating! Well done. If the research is successful, it could have a significant impact on launch and rocket propulsion costs. Good luck!
The State of Israel must place hundreds of scientists to create alternative energy, thereby returning the Arab countries to their natural place.
Oil has enriched Qatar and it is taking over the world. This is a first-class national goal.
Cheers to the professor