Mystery Objects From Other Stars Are Visiting Our Solar System. These Missions Will Study Them Up Close
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Summary
Interstellar objects such as ‘Oumuamua that visit our solar system offer a glimpse into distant star systems that are too far to reach with a spacecraft, but what if we could get closer and gain more insight?
Emerging technology using solar sails and artificial intelligence could help scientists get closer to these interstellar objects (ISOs), getting greater insights into their composition, geology, and activity.
Technical challenges include developing high-speed propulsion and ensuring the energy source doesn’t degrade, potentially over years waiting for an ISO to be detected.
Multiple approaches are needed, involving ground-based telescopes and space-based missions.
This article was republished with permission from The Conversation.
