Chrysalis could be home to several generations before it reaches Alpha Centauri, where it could transport humans to the surface of Proxima Centauri b. (Photo: Giacomo Infelise, Veronica Magli, Guido Sbroggio, Nevenka Martinello and Federica Chiara Serpe)
Would you be willing to leave Earth and take a one-way trip to the nearest star system? In a Live Science poll, we asked our readers if they’d be willing to board a spaceship that would take 400 years to reach Alpha Centauri. The poll focused on a hypothetical spacecraft called Chrysalis, which won first place in a competition to design a multi-generational spacecraft that could carry thousands of people to Proxima Centauri b, an Earth-sized exoplanet that’s thought to be potentially habitable.
The survey, published on August 13, polled more than 3,300 readers. At the time of writing, the results showed that 45% of respondents were ready to go on a journey through deep space without any questions asked, while 30% answered a firm “no.”
And the rest? Well, it all depends on the details, so we asked them what made them sit on the galactic fence.
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“This will depend on the living conditions, as well as the work and recreational opportunities required,” wrote Jason P. Harris.
For some, the decision was driven by comfort and relaxation. “If I could go alone, if the ship had a racing track, and if I could take a motorbike with me, I would sign the contract right now,” wrote S. Ravenscroft.
And the ability to sleep for 400 years was also a deciding factor. “If hypersleep was possible, then yes, I would go,” Chris K. told X24.
Others tied their decision to the future of Earth. “I guess if Earth became uninhabitable, I'd do it,” wrote Captain Awesome. “But that doesn't sound fun, my connection to Earth will get worse and worse until the game becomes impossible.”
Gavin Chapple noted that technology could advance significantly in those 400 years, writing: “The silliest thing is that when they finally arrive, there will already be people there who have outpaced them with near-light-speed technology.”
So, what do you think? After weighing all the options, are you ready to leave Earth and head to Alpha Centauri? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Elise studied marine biology at the University of Portsmouth in the UK. She has worked as a freelance journalist, specialising in underwater biology. She collaborates with Live Science through the Future Academy, a programme that trains future journalists in best practices in the field.
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