The Physics of Interstellar Travel

Coryn A. L. Bailer-Jones is a staff member at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg where he does research on stellar and Galactic astrophysics. He teaches physics at Heidelberg University and in 2017 published the textbook Practical Bayesian Inference. For many years he played a leading role in the European Space Agency's space astrometry mission, Gaia.

• 1. Introduction; 2. Why travel to the stars?; 3. Rockets; 4. Orbital mechanics; 5. Thermal rockets; 6. Ion engines; 7. Relativistic motion; 8. Nuclear rockets; 9. Relativistic optical effects; 10. Solar sails; 11. Laser sails; 12. Interstellar medium; 13. Magnetic and electric sails; 14. Navigation; 15. Communication; 16. Payloads; 17. Outlook; Further reading; Bibliography; Index.

'The Physics of Interstellar Travel delivers an impressively rigorous and clear exposition of the scientific and engineering challenges and remarkable promise of future interstellar missions. I found this work to bridge theoretical depth with practical vision, making it indispensable reading for aerospace professionals and science enthusiasts alike. With thorough analysis, technical clarity, and inspiring scope, Bailer-Jones sets a new benchmark for scientific literature on interstellar exploration.' Les Johnson, Chief Technology Officer, NASA MSFC (retired), author of A Traveler's Guide to the Stars