Análisis Relativista del comportamiento de micro-naves con velas solares para su divulgación e implementación en el aula mediante metodología "Peer-Instruction".

Abstract

This thesis presents an analysis of the behavior of micro-ships with solar sails powered by direct energy systems, applying the principles of special relativity. The research focuses on how these ships, propelled by radiation pressure, can reach relativistic speeds (around 20% of the speed of light) and the physical and energetic implications of such movement, which include the use of direct energy systems, such as electromagnetic radiation emitters that can be located in facilities on the Earth's surface, and pointing many of these emitters to generate enough power to cause acceleration. To do so, fundamental concepts such as time dilation, space contraction, kinetic energy and relativistic momentum are reviewed, analyzing their relevance in the context of large-scale space explorations, such as the Starshot project, which proposes sending micro-ships to nearby star systems such as Alpha Centauri.The study also addresses the didactic implementation of these concepts using the "Peer Instruction" methodology, a pedagogical approach based on peer instruction, which facilitates collaborative learning and the development of critical thinking in students. The goal is to make relativistic phenomena accessible and understandable for physics students, connecting theory with practical applications through the analysis of concrete cases such as solar sail micro-craft.Finally, a micro-class is proposed that adapts these concepts to the classroom, using evaluation metrics such as Hake's Gain Factor and Bao and Redish's Concentration Factor to measure the impact on student learning. The study concludes with recommendations on the feasibility of integrating these concepts and methodologies into the teaching of modern physics.