This book is an exposition of classical mechanics and relativity that addresses the question of whether it is possible to send probes to extrasolar systems. It examines largely well-understood physics to consider the possibility of exploring the nearby interstellar environment in a similar fashion to how the solar system has been explored. As such, this book is both a semipopularization of basic physics and an informal study of a likely future technological development. An auxilliary text on basic physics for students and laypersons as well as an illustration of the problems with interstellar exploration, this book is a must-read.

Contents:

• Newtonian Mechanics
• The Physics of Rocketry and Spaceflight
• Power Systems for Spaceflight
• Elements of Astrodynamics
• Special Relativity
• The Relativistic Rocket
• The Photon Sail
• Scientific and Technical Requirements
• Electromagnetically Accelerated Nano-bots
• Exotic Propulsion Methods
• The Interstellar Neighborhood
• Will Humans go to the Stars?
• Solar System Stability and the Likelihood of Earth-like Planets
• Life on Earth and in the Universe