Theoretical physics

Project Elara’s main work (for now, at least) is to develop peaceful space-based solar energy technologies. However, there are many technologies that, while not directly developed by Project Elara, are enabled by (or adjacent to) our technology. We believe it fitting to at least include a discussion of them in the Handbook.

Some of these technologies are ones that are already in development or are conceptually well-established (e.g. solar sails). Others are far more speculative and are presently outside the realm of possibility (e.g. interstellar spaceflight). And still others are at the frontiers of physics itself. Regardless, we will touch on all of them, both for educational purposes (as a good way to gain a better understanding of physics and engineering) and in the spirit of sharing and passing our knowledge to others.

In addition, we will give an overview on advanced mathematics and physics, which form part of the necessary theoretical background to understand advanced topics. This includes special relativity, general relativity and relativistic quantum field theory. while Project Elara’s research (mostly) does not involve advanced theoretical physics, these chapters are meant for sharing our knowledge and in case the Project will have applications that require an understanding of these topics in the future. We hope we can explain them in a way that is enriching and meaningful.

“My methods are really methods of working and thinking; this is why they have crept in everywhere anonymously.”

Emmy Noether