A note on relativistic rocketry

TL;DR

This paper explores the physics of relativistic rockets, analyzing their specific impulse when exhaust consists of massive and massless particles, correcting previous errors by including the Lorentz factor.

Contribution

It generalizes prior models of relativistic rocket propulsion and corrects earlier inaccuracies related to Lorentz factor omission.

Findings

Provides a generalized formula for relativistic rocket specific impulse.

Corrects previous errors in relativistic rocket calculations.

Enhances understanding of exhaust particle effects in relativistic regimes.

Abstract

In the context of special relativity, we discuss the specific impulse of a rocket whose exhaust jet consists of massive and/or massless particles. This work generalizes previous results and corrects some errors of a recently published paper by U. Walter. (The errors stem from the omission of a Lorentz factor.)