Summary of the ITSF Study

The Innovative Technologies from Science Fiction (ITSF) study conducted for the European Space Agency reviewed past and present science-fiction literature, artwork and films in order to identify and assess innovative technologies and concepts described therein which could possibly be developed further for space applications, and to gather imaginative ideas that might have potential for long-term development by the European space sector.

It should be noted that the study so far barely scratchs the surface of the vast reservoir of science-fiction literature and films. Nevertheless, the initial phase of the study has covered many of the major concepts mentioned in the literature. Altogether some 50 fact sheets and 35 technical dossiers covering some 250 concepts and technologies were generated as a result of the first phase of the study. In addition, artists submitted a number of space-art images which they believed encapsulated the essence of many of the ideas found in science fiction. Many of these ideas, technologies and concepts have been distilled into the summaries contained in the brochure.

David A. HatrdyIn the concepts listed below, examples of science-fiction books and films are included to give the context and many of the images submitted as part of the ITSF study are used to illustrate the subjects. It must be emphasised that these concepts are pretty much the ideas of visionary and imaginative individuals, and it will be a long time before any of them can be turned in realistic and practical developments and actually used. Further details about the study, together with the fact sheets, images and sources, can be found in the Resources section.

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Science-Fiction Concepts

Propulsion Techniques

Colonization of Space Energy and Power
Computers and Communications Robotics and Cyborgs Launch Systems Resources and Materials Other Technologies

 

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