The Physics of Interstellar Travel
The Physics of Interstellar Travel by Coryn Bailer-Jones examines the physics and engineering challenges of sending an uncrewed spacecraft to a nearby star and communicating its findings back. It assumes familiarity with basic physics and covers propulsion, navigation, communication, relativity, optics, thermodynamics, astronomy, and the interstellar medium.
At a glance
- Frames interstellar travel as a practical physics problem, from spacecraft propulsion to returning data across vast distances.
- Discusses nuclear rockets and laser sails alongside navigation, communications, and the interstellar medium.
- Applies concepts including relativity, optics, thermodynamics, and astronomy.
- Described as a self-contained introduction for readers already familiar with basic physics.
- The listing says an open-access version is also available on Cambridge Core.
Reference price: $70.00
Price checked: Nov 14, 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionPros and cons
Pros
- Brings mission design topics such as propulsion and navigation together with the communication challenge of receiving data from a nearby star.
- Its stated physics prerequisite helps readers judge whether the technical level is appropriate before buying.
Cons
- Not positioned as a beginner-level introduction to physics. The description assumes some familiarity with the subject.
Technical specifications
7 specifications| Publisher | Cambridge University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | May 21, 2026 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 374 pages |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1009689328 |
| Weight listed | 2.21 pounds |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8 x 0.88 x 10 inches |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Physics students or readers with basic physics knowledge interested in interstellar mission design.
- Readers seeking a technical overview spanning propulsion, spacecraft navigation, communications, and astrophysics.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for an introductory physics book with no prior subject knowledge.
- Readers seeking a general-audience overview rather than a technically grounded discussion.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
49% 49% - 4 stars
51% 51% - 3 stars
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The listing shows a positive aggregate rating, but it is based on only two ratings and no written customer feedback is supplied. That is too limited to identify dependable reader-reported strengths or concerns, so use the stated physics prerequisite and topic coverage to judge fit.
Frequently asked questions
Who is this book intended for?
The description assumes some familiarity with basic physics, so it is aimed at readers comfortable with foundational physics concepts.
What topics does it cover?
It discusses propulsion methods including nuclear rockets and laser sails, as well as navigation, communication, the interstellar medium, relativity, optics, thermodynamics, and astronomy.
Does it focus only on getting a spacecraft to another star?
No. Its stated scope also includes what an uncrewed spacecraft could do at its destination and how it might send data back over great distances.
Is there an open-access version?
The listing says this title is also available as open access on Cambridge Core.
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