Interstellar Probes: The Benefits to Astronomy & Astrophysics
Kelvin F Long

TL;DR
This paper advocates for robotic interstellar probes to enhance astronomical and planetary knowledge, complementing remote sensing, and supports Project Starshot's goal of sending gram-scale probes to nearby stars within two decades.
Contribution
It introduces the concept of in-situ interstellar reconnaissance, highlighting its potential to provide unique scientific insights beyond remote observations.
Findings
In-situ probes can calibrate and refine existing astronomical measurements.
Close encounters enable detailed study of exoplanetary geology, atmospheres, and potential biosignatures.
Supporting Project Starshot's feasibility for interstellar exploration.
Abstract
Long range observations in the field of astronomy have opened up our understanding of the Solar System, the Galaxy and the wider Universe. In this paper we discuss the idea of direct in-situ reconnaissance of nearby stellar systems, using robotic probes. In particular, we consider what additional knowledge can be learned that can only be obtained by such close encounters. This may include calibration of existing measurements, detailed observations of stellar winds, astrometry measurements of stellar parallax, refinement of our understanding of physics through the use of long baseline interferometers. In addition, getting close to an exoplanet will enable detailed knowledge of planetary interiors, surface processes, geological evolution, atmospheric composition and climate, internal seismology, detailed surface morphology and even the speculative possibility of detecting the presence of…
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Taxonomy
TopicsAstro and Planetary Science · Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life · Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies
