antimatter-propulsion
A speculative technology involving the controlled annihilation of matter and antimatter to generate powerful rocket exhaust for moving asteroids and other celestial bodies.
2 chapters across 2 books
Pale Blue Dot (1994)Carl Sagan
Chapter 19 of "Pale Blue Dot" explores the concept of terraforming and human colonization of the Solar System, focusing on the possibility of transforming asteroids and planets like Mars for human habitation. It discusses early science fiction visions of space colonization, the physical and technological challenges of inhabiting small bodies such as asteroids, and the potential future use of advanced energy sources like antimatter and fusion to move and sustain these habitats. The chapter also addresses the practical and ethical considerations of planetary engineering and the gradual transition from government-led pioneering to self-sufficient extraterrestrial communities.
The Reality Dysfunction (1996)Peter F. Hamilton
In Chapter 1 of The Reality Dysfunction, the attack cruiser Beezling is ambushed by advanced enemy ships known as blackhawks, which deploy combat drones in a high-stakes space battle. Captain Kyle Prager and his crew struggle to defend the ship while carrying the secretive and powerful Alchemist device, highlighting the tension between military duty and the dangerous technology they possess. The chapter also introduces Dr. Alkad Mzu and Peter Adul, revealing personal stakes amid the conflict and the harsh realities of space warfare.