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Surprising Science

Why We Can’t “Fire the Photon Torpedos”

Propelling a spaceship with photons would be like trying to energize a spaceship with a flashlight.

Every Wednesday, Michio Kaku will be answering reader questions about physics and futuristic science. If you have a question for Dr. Kaku, just post it in the comments section below and check back on Wednesdays to see if he answers it.


Today, Dr. Kaku addresses a question posed by Serge Andrew Shpad: Is a photon engine possible? Could it be used to power a spaceship?


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