NASA Tests Microwave Space Drive

schwit1 (797399) writes with news that NASA scientists have tested the EmDrive, which claims to use quantum vacuum plasma for propulsion. Theoretically improbable, but perhaps possible after all. If it does work, it would eliminate the need for expendable fuel (just add electricity). From the article:Either the results are completely wrong, or NASA has confirmed a major breakthrough in space propulsion. A working microwave thruster would radically cut the cost of satellites and space stations and extend their working life, drive deep-space missions, and take astronauts to Mars in weeks rather than months. ... [According to the researchers] "Test results indicate that the RF resonant cavity thruster design, which is unique as an electric propulsion device, is producing a force that is not attributable to any classical electromagnetic phenomenon and therefore is potentially demonstrating an interaction with the quantum vacuum virtual plasma." Skepticism is certainly warranted: NASA researchers were only able to produce about 1/1000th of the force the Chinese researchers reported. But they were careful to avoid false sensor readings, so something is going on. The paper declined to comment on what that could be, leaving the physics of the system an open problem.

KSP

[Thanshin]

Let's stick to the important consequences. When will this reach KSP? Is a patch/hotfix in development?

Zaphod?

[fuzznutz]

Theoretically improbable, but perhaps possible after all.

Actually, it's infinitely improbable, therefore finitely probable. All they need is a heart of gold.

Re:KSP

[NotDrWho]

Let's stick to the important consequences.

How fast can it cook a potato?

Re:free electricity!

[NotDrWho]

Imagine a nuclear 747.

I'm already working on my pitch to Syfy.

Re:Sensationalism at its worst

[Charliemopps]

Fact 1: The NASA team has measured approximately 30-50 micronewtons of thrust in the experiment
Fact 2: The NASA team experienced a similar thrust on a test item that was NOT design to experience any force.

It is pretty obvious that there was a systematic error in NASA's experiment.

Or the midichlorians were just screwing with them for fun.