nanocraft

However, the century-long timeframe of the proposed mission means the nanocraft may be obsolete by the time it arrives at its destination, says Lewis.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025

The second nanocraft would approach the black hole while the primary vehicle would remain at a distance, collecting data to be sent back to Earth.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025

In order to test the predictions of general relativity, it may be necessary to dispatch two miniature spacecraft, or for the main nanocraft to release a second probe once it nears the black hole.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025

Lewis says Bambi’s plan doesn’t address how to decelerate the nanocraft once it arrives at the black hole.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025

It won’t be possible for humans to visit a black hole, says Bambi, as our bodies wouldn’t be able to cope with the 10,000 g acceleration forces that the nanocraft will have to endure.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025

The journey could be made in under a century with a nanocraft weighing about a gram and carrying a 10-square-metre sail, which would allow it to be propelled by light.

How we could explore a black hole with an interstellar nanocraft James Woodford 2025