Dr. Chance Glenn demonstrates his spacetime distortion interferometry experiments and provides a tour of his Alabama A&M lab. He describes the “Experimental Spacetime Distortion (ESD) Engine”, a new project using high-energy electrical discharges and laser interferometers that may be generating spacetime distortion. His experiments attempt to create miniature spacetime distortions using a spark gap in a vacuum chamber and laser interferometry.

Dr. Chance Glenn is professor of Electrical Engineering and the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at the University of Houston-Victoria and the founder & chairman of the Morningbird Foundation. He has decades of experience in engineering, technology, entrepreneurship, and higher education, and has published extensively, holds patents, and traveled globally to speak on issues of science, innovation, and technology. Dr. Glenn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland and a Master’s and Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering from the Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. He also holds a Management Development Certificate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Glenn’s research, inspired by LIGO data and Alcubierre’s warp drive equations, aims to observe spacetime elasticity at smaller scales. Initial experiments showed fringe movement variations, potentially indicating spacetime distortion, but challenges remain in differentiating between electrostatic effects and true metric changes. The discussion involved optimizing experimental setup (vibration mitigation, vacuum level, gas backfill), improving signal-to-noise ratio, and addressing potential noise sources. Participants offered suggestions, including using sulfur hexafluoride instead of vacuum, employing a Marx generator for higher energy pulses, and minimizing atom density. Dr. Glenn emphasizes the importance of physical experimentation alongside theoretical work and welcomed replication and collaboration. His ongoing research also includes investigating thrust using a torsion balance.

A Spark of Genius: The Interferometry Experiment

Dr. Glenn’s current focus is on a spark gap experiment within a vacuum chamber, coupled with an interferometer setup. The goal? To detect and measure spacetime distortion at a smaller scale, inspired by data from LIGO and black hole mergers. By precisely modulating the spark’s speed and frequency using a signal generator and amplifier, he hypothesizes that he can influence the local spacetime.

The experiment isn’t without its challenges. Initial attempts resulted in plasma formation, obscuring the desired effects. However, achieving a near-perfect vacuum eliminated the plasma, revealing a surprising observation: stimulated emission.

The setup, initially conducted on a vibration-mitigated table, utilizes a laser beam passing through the center of the spark gap. Careful analysis of interference fringes is crucial to isolate the effects of the changing energy source from other potential influences.

The team addressed concerns about differentiating between metric and electrostatic changes, and the potential influence of the refractive index of air. Experiments with different wavelengths and incidence angles helped rule out refractive index as the sole cause of observed effects.

Importantly, Dr. Glenn emphasizes the experiment’s simplicity and replicability, encouraging others to reproduce the results to validate his findings. A detailed paper outlining the methodology and results is linked for those interested in a deeper dive.

Beyond Sparks: Exploring Alcubierre’s Equations

Dr. Glenn’s ambition extends beyond the spark gap experiment. He’s also delving into the complex world of Alcubierre’s equations, aiming to manipulate spacetime using a complex variable to remove the requirement for negative energy density.

This involves using a material with a complex dielectric constant within a chamber and a circularly polarized antenna to create field circulation. While insufficient RF power currently limits results, the mathematical possibility remains, and the use of a 90-degree phase shift is crucial for achieving the desired field circulation.

The choice of a square antenna, rather than a round one, is a practical decision, simplifying the process of fixing it at the desired frequency.

Addressing Challenges and Future Directions

The research isn’t without its hurdles. The team discusses various noise sources, including building vibrations and traffic noise, and the importance of minimizing atoms for accurate spacetime effect measurement. Suggestions for improvements include using a Faraday shielded vacuum chamber, exploring alternative mediums like sulfur hexafluoride, and employing higher energy pulses from a Marx generator.

Dr. Glenn acknowledges the challenges of working with a vacuum chamber and the need for a step-by-step approach. He’s also investigating thrust using a torsion balance and escalating energy input.

The discussion also touches upon the fascinating topic of glow in a vacuum, the optimal vacuum levels for certain effects, and the role of ion wind.

A Collaborative Effort

The podcast features a lively exchange of ideas and expertise from a group of scientists, highlighting the collaborative nature of scientific research. The participants include experts from various backgrounds, including NASA, contributing valuable insights and suggestions.

Dr. Glenn’s work is a testament to the power of combining theoretical work with rigorous physical experimentation. He openly welcomes replication, extension, feedback, and resource contributions from the scientific community.

Conclusion: A Bold Leap Towards the Future

Dr. Chance Glenn’s research is not just a scientific endeavor; it’s a testament to human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries. His work in Huntsville, inspired by Star Trek, brings us closer to the possibility of technologies once confined to science fiction. The journey is far from over, but the initial results are undeniably exciting, offering a glimpse into a future where manipulating spacetime might not be just a dream.