There is a human predisposition to explore whether it is outer space or the bottom of our own oceans. The challenge of new discoveries, of new uncharted territories and the thrill of success are potent motivators that will see humans continue to push beyond all known limits of the early 21st century.

The exploration of outer space is a challenge beyond our existing capability; the best we can do is to send a small number of unpiloted space vehicles on a one-way journey and take comfort in pictures returned. The tyranny of distance is such that the most distant planet in our own tiny solar system is still a dream away. Humans simply cannot develop spacecraft capable of the unimaginable velocities required to reach outside our local system, nor do we have the technology required to build a life-sustaining environment for any human occupants on extended voyages.

The most challenging factor is the formidable barrier we call the speed of light. During WWII pilots believed the sound barrier was the ultimate limit for atmospheric velocity, and that it was not physically possible to exceed this limit. "There is a demon out there, and this demon is called the sound barrier. Any man that tries to beat the demon will die" was a common superstition. History has since proved this belief incorrect and the sound barrier is now a simple matter of jet propulsion and aerodynamics overcoming the physical resistance of air mass. Simple in theory, difficult to achieve until the invention of modern control systems, complex and exotic metals capable of withstanding the terrific forces in a working jet engine, and of course some exceptional pilots willing to risk their lives.

Now we come to the next major barrier, the speed of light. Physics currently tell us the speed of light is the absolute upper limit of velocity however recent discoveries have already demonstrated particles that can exceed this limit. It is a fair proposition to suggest in time humans will learn the secret and develop faster than light propulsion this of course is the first of many other obstacles needed to overcome such as:

Gravity humans cannot survive for too long in zero gravity conditions without sustaining significant physiological damage after prolonged exposure. Even a relatively short faster-than-light voyage is likely to take a few years there and back.

Communication existing radio signals have a finite limit and a space vehicle travelling beyond this limit will need a new

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