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STAR TRAVELER
Relativistic Star Travel Simulator
by
James Kent Blackburn
Version 1.20
This is a "FAT" release of Traveler
Built using NeXTStep 3.2
Introduction:
Star Traveler is a simulator for space travel to the stars. It
incorporates all the equations of special relativity to accurately account
for the behavior of clocks and rulers that one would encounter on a voyage
to the stars.
One particularly useful academic application of this program is as a
demonstration of the famous "Twin Paradox" from introductory special relativity
lectures.
The traveler in the simulation can control velocity and acceleration
parameter for a journey to a nearby star and back to Earth where a comparison
of the time lapse experienced by the traveler can be made with that on Earth.
So, Einstein was right.
Presently star systems can be generated randomly within the field of
view. As an added bonus I have included actual positions of stars in the
general direction of two constellations; Orion, and Ursa Minor. More may be
added in a later version.
Getting Started:
To begin, the traveler should select a destination under the
Constellation Menu. The current version only supports the constellations
Orion and Ursa Minor. Hooks for future constellations are in the code for
when the data becomes available. There is also a random selection under the
Constellation Menu for generating a hypothetical star field. Using the slider
controls under the field of view, determine what Acceleration and Terminal
Speed are to be used during the voyage. Next determine the Time per Frame
to be used in updating the star field of view. These controls can be
dynamically adjusted during the journey. Now all the traveler need do is
press the Engage button and set back and enjoy the ride. The present velocity
and distance traveled from Earth as view on Earth are presented in the
Velocity: and Distance: boxes At some point the traveler will want to return
to Earth. This most easily accomplished by pressing the small "+" button next
the the Acceleration. This determines the direction of the acceleration from
the Star Drive engines. Upon returning to Earth the traveler experiences an
abrupt stop from any speed to a complete rest. The traveler can then compare
the time lapse on Earth in the Earth Time: box to that which he has
experienced in the Proper Time: box. To reset all the parameters select Go to
Earth in the menu. Now the traveler can pick a new destination and live a very
long and prosperous relativistically enhanced live.
Getting The Source Code:
If you like Star Traveler and use it often, please make a small
contribution to the cause. This will motivate me to continue development,
add new features like extended star effects, red and blue wavelength shifts.
I am making the Objective-C source code and all the PB/IB components available
on 3.5 inch floppies. To receive a copy please send your name and address
along with a certified check for $25 dollars for handling. I will send you
the latest version of the source code and add you to an announcement list
for future versions. You are free to use and or modify the source code to
your hearts content. However, commercial distrubution is forbidden. There is
no warranty or user support for Star Traveler. Comments are welcome.
Author:
James Kent Blackburn
14027 Vista Drive, #191-B
Laurel, MD 20707-5889
Internet: kent@kentaurus.gsfc.nasa.gov
These are the contents of the former NiCE NeXT User Group NeXTSTEP/OpenStep software archive, currently hosted by Netfuture.ch.