This paper presents a relay chain architecture for long-duration interstellar exploration. Identical spacecraft are launched sequentially over 30 years, forming a self-healing relay chain that operates autonomously for 1,000 years without human intervention, uplink commands, or institutional continuity. The system generates approximately 110 independent close approaches to Proxima Centauri across 550 years — the first proposed methodology for longitudinal stellar observation. Scientific capability emerges from system-level coordination rather than individual probe performance. The paper addresses four audiences simultaneously: engineers, physicists and astronomers, social scientists, and programme funders. It argues that interstellar exploration fails at disciplinary boundaries rather than within any single domain, and proposes an industrial production model, a human sustainability framework, and a governance architecture alongside the technical design. Programme A uses existing chemical propulsion to reach the Oort Cloud within 150 years. Programme B, pending treaty revision for nuclear pulse propulsion, reaches Proxima Centauri in 458 years. Submitted informally for consideration by the interstellar research community. Contact: miteshpatel.research26@gmail.com Further reading, items found after publication of v1.1 — Cannon, M. (2026). Civilization Supply Theory (CST): Supply Chain Constraints on Interplanetary and Interstellar Expansion. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19422196
Mitesh Patel (Fri,) studied this question.