Technical Diagrams
(PDF Format)

Ramscoop

Ramscoop
Space appears to be empty, but it is not. Every square meter of vacuum in interstellar space contains a few random molecules of gases such as hydrogen and helium. In sufficient quantities, these gases can stored and used as fuel. The Ramscoop vessel would use a huge magnetic funnel to suck in the gases which would be stored in special tanks. With this endless supply of fuel, the ship can burn its engine indefinitely. This constant thrust could produce speeds near a quarter of the speed of light.