2 ms·
Not quite true based on current roadmaps. If BFR pans out in the next 5 years, it could pretty easily launch a significantly faster probe that would pass the V
by mdorazio 7y ago
Not quite true based on current roadmaps. If BFR pans out in the next 5 years, it could pretty easily launch a significantly faster probe that would pass the Voyager probes in about a decade (with a gravity assist from Jupiter and/or the sun). This was discussed in conjunction with catching Oumuamua [1].
However, if we're stuck with the launch capability of Falcon Heavy, it would take multiple launches with in-orbit docking/refueling to do it. Still possible in a 10ish year horizon, but too expensive to be worth it.
[1] https://www.centauri-dreams.org/2017/11/10/project-lyra-sending-a-spacecraft-to-1ioumuamua-formerly-a2017-u1-the-interstellar-asteroid/ https://www.centauri-dreams.org/2017/11/10/project-lyra-send...
- mabbo 7y agoWow, seriously? I'm a huge SpaceX fanboy, but I hadn't even considered the BFR as a probe launcher. But then, that does sort of align with my statement: it's gonna need a loooot of energy to catch up. But wouldn't that be neat? BFR is going to be relatively cheap to launch so we could do a lot with it. Imagine if it launched a probe similar to Voyager, but built to go faster, farther out, even more resilient, even more power and instruments. Throw in a solar sail to gain even further speed on its way out. The future keeps looking cooler and cooler, if we can just not kill each other.