Sci-fi engine thrust calculations

In summary, a technical manual is being written for a starship in a science-fiction series. The ship's sub-light engines are capable of a maximum speed of 15,000 km/s (0.05c) and require 18,750 teraNewtons of thrust to achieve this speed at a fully loaded mass of 5 million metric tons. The ship also has 30 reaction control thrusters that can produce a combined thrust of 375,000 gees for manoeuvring. The ship's maximum speed is limited by practical considerations to prevent time dilation effects. The fully loaded ship mass includes all components.
  • #36
jbriggs444 said:
If it works by grabbing hold of some sort of cosmic fabric and thrusting against it then that takes much less energy but it flies in the face of the principle of relativity. Something that physicists are unwilling to part with.

On that topic for a moment, I read that Dr. Harold White managed to reduce the amount of antimatter needed to 500kg to generate a warp engine that would take a ship to Alpha Centauri in just shy of 5 months. However, are there any figures for this? What I mean is, does this imply only 500kg are needed if the engine is in constant use for the full five months, so, a use of 100kg per month?

The ships in my world do have a warp drive, however, they are still limited by the light speed barrier - i.e., a ship's maximum speed is the speed of light, but the warp engine negates time dilation effects. How would this factor into energy usage?
 
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  • #37
paulthomas said:
Dr. Harold White managed to reduce the amount of antimatter needed...
As far as I know, he's merely postulated a way to reduce the energy demands for an Alcubierre Warp Metric. It's all theoretical and maybe not even physically possible, and is as handwavium as you're likely to get for a sci-fi story, but in terms of how much antimatter etc., nobody knows.

paulthomas said:
...but the warp engine negates time dilation effects. How would this factor into energy usage?
However you need it to, really. This is not physics as we understand it operates in the universe, so you get to set the scene, @paulthomas. My only advice is to think your plot(s) as far ahead as possible in broad terms so you don't lock some ship attribute now that trips you up later.
 
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  • #38
Thanks @Melbourne Guy and @jbriggs444 for your help in this area! It's definitely been most helpful!
 
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<h2>1. How is engine thrust calculated in science fiction?</h2><p>In science fiction, engine thrust is often calculated based on the mass of the spacecraft and the acceleration it needs to achieve. This is typically expressed in units of force, such as Newtons or pounds of thrust.</p><h2>2. What factors are considered in determining engine thrust in sci-fi?</h2><p>In sci-fi, factors such as the type of propulsion system, the energy source, and the efficiency of the engine are often taken into account when calculating engine thrust. Other factors, such as the atmospheric conditions of the fictional world, may also be considered.</p><h2>3. Can engine thrust be increased in science fiction?</h2><p>In science fiction, engine thrust can often be increased through advanced technologies or modifications to the engine. This could include using more powerful energy sources, improving the efficiency of the engine, or utilizing new propulsion methods.</p><h2>4. How is engine thrust depicted in sci-fi media?</h2><p>In sci-fi media, engine thrust is often depicted visually through the use of special effects. It may also be described in dialogue or shown on a control panel or display. The amount of thrust and its effects on the spacecraft may vary depending on the story's specific universe and technology.</p><h2>5. How accurate are engine thrust calculations in science fiction?</h2><p>Engine thrust calculations in science fiction can vary greatly in accuracy. Some stories may strive for scientific realism and use accurate calculations, while others may prioritize storytelling and take creative liberties with the science. It ultimately depends on the goals and style of the author or creator.</p>

1. How is engine thrust calculated in science fiction?

In science fiction, engine thrust is often calculated based on the mass of the spacecraft and the acceleration it needs to achieve. This is typically expressed in units of force, such as Newtons or pounds of thrust.

2. What factors are considered in determining engine thrust in sci-fi?

In sci-fi, factors such as the type of propulsion system, the energy source, and the efficiency of the engine are often taken into account when calculating engine thrust. Other factors, such as the atmospheric conditions of the fictional world, may also be considered.

3. Can engine thrust be increased in science fiction?

In science fiction, engine thrust can often be increased through advanced technologies or modifications to the engine. This could include using more powerful energy sources, improving the efficiency of the engine, or utilizing new propulsion methods.

4. How is engine thrust depicted in sci-fi media?

In sci-fi media, engine thrust is often depicted visually through the use of special effects. It may also be described in dialogue or shown on a control panel or display. The amount of thrust and its effects on the spacecraft may vary depending on the story's specific universe and technology.

5. How accurate are engine thrust calculations in science fiction?

Engine thrust calculations in science fiction can vary greatly in accuracy. Some stories may strive for scientific realism and use accurate calculations, while others may prioritize storytelling and take creative liberties with the science. It ultimately depends on the goals and style of the author or creator.

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