If space data centers feel far-fetched, why not interstellar travel?
The team behind Starcloud's orbital data centers has a new high-risk space project: Sending a probe to Alpha Centauri.
TL;DR
- Fermi Explorer is a new mission aiming to send a small spacecraft to Alpha Centauri.
- The mission is projected to cost $15 million and launch in 2029.
- It plans to use proven space technologies and electric propulsion, not novel advanced systems.
- The journey to Alpha Centauri is expected to take 80,000 years.
- The mission aims to be the first human-built object explicitly aimed at another star.
- The founders are seeking partners, donations, and advice for the mission.
- The spacecraft will have a 10 cm square payload weighing 1 kilogram.
- The vehicle is intended to be active for about 12 years before a coast phase.