Interstellar

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Interstellar describes the region or matter existing between individual stars within a galaxy, comprising gas (atomic, molecular, ionized), dust, cosmic rays, and magnetic fields, collectively known as the interstellar medium (ISM).

BACKGROUND

Outer space, or simply space, is the expanse that exists beyond Earth's atmosphere and between celestial bodies. It contains ultra-low levels of particle densities, constituting a near-perfect vacuum of predominantly hydrogen and helium plasma, permeated by electromagnetic radiation, cosmic rays, neutrinos, magnetic fields and dust. The baseline temperature of outer space, as set by the background radiation from the Big Bang, is 2.7 kelvins.

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

• Between stars
• ISM
• Cosmic space
• Galactic space

USAGE NOTE

Interstellar travel refers to journeys between star systems.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Interstellar.

• Breakthrough Starshot

  An initiative aiming to develop a fleet of light-driven nanocraft capable of making the journey to Alpha Centauri within a human generation, representing a pioneering effort in interstellar travel technology.

• Icarus Interstellar

  A non-profit foundation dedicated to researching and developing the technology required for interstellar flight, exploring concepts such as fusion propulsion and advanced starship design.

• Initiative for Interstellar Studies (i4is)

  A non-profit organization promoting and conducting research into the challenges and solutions for interstellar flight, fostering scientific and technological studies for reaching the stars.

• NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)

  Through programs like the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) and work at facilities like the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), NASA funds and conducts research into advanced propulsion systems and long-duration spaceflight capabilities crucial for potential future interstellar missions.

• The British Interplanetary Society (BIS)

  The world's oldest space advocacy organization, which has historically produced and continues to explore detailed studies on interstellar travel concepts, such as the seminal Project Daedalus starship design.

• European Space Agency (ESA) - Advanced Concepts Team (ACT)

  ESA's internal think tank that explores new technologies and concepts for future space missions, including advanced propulsion systems and foundational research that could enable future interstellar travel.