What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to explore the rationale for initiating interuniversal transitions with unmanned probes rather than human missions.

June 30, 2026Open Access

Probes Instead of People: Why It Makes Sense to Start with Unmanned Missions in the Exploration of Interuniversal Transitions

Key Points

The aim is to explore the rationale for initiating interuniversal transitions with unmanned probes rather than human missions.
Analyzed historical precedents of unmanned missions in space exploration.
Introduced a classification of probe generations based on automation capabilities.
Reviewed literature on AI energy efficiency and research ethics relevant to space exploration.
Probes significantly reduce risks to human life and energy consumption (5-10 t vs ~50 t for manned ships).
Introduced four generations of probes increasing in complexity from basic automation to full AI capabilities.
The conclusion emphasizes automation as a necessary strategy for safe and effective exploration.

Abstract

The article "Probes Instead of People: Why It Makes Sense to Start with Unmanned Missions" justifies a strategy of phased exploration of interuniversal transitions, starting with automatic probes. The author argues that the first step into an unknown environment should be made not by humans nor by intelligent systems, but by simple, reliable automata. Historical precedent — all major space programs (Sputnik, Vostok, Luna, Mars) began with unmanned missions on rigid automation. The article analyzes the advantages of probes: reduced risk to humans, simplified design, reduced energy consumption (probe mass 5–10 t vs ~50 t for a manned ship), reduced risks of reverse infiltration, and mass production capability. Problems are examined: signal delay, limited capabilities, data loss. A division into probe generations is introduced: 1st generation — automatic beacons (only program execution); 2nd generation — automation with templates (classification by thresholds); 3rd generation — AI elements for adaptation; 4th generation — full AI for long-range missions. It is emphasized that AI is a forward-looking direction, but not for the first step. The justification is based on the history of space exploration (Launius, Siddiqi), work on AI for space missions (Castillo-Rogez, Chien), AI energy efficiency research (Strubell), research ethics (Milligan, Schwartz), updated SETI protocols (IAA, 2026), and historical analogies of reverse infiltration (Crosby, McNeill, Diamond). The main conclusion: starting with automation-based probes is a survival strategy and the only reasonable path for the first interuniversal missions.

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