Nonprofit Plans 80,000-Year Alpha Centauri Mission for 2029 Launch

A nonprofit called the Fermi Explorer Mission aims to launch a small spacecraft toward the Alpha Centauri system by 2029. The 100–200 kg probe would use electric propulsion, carry at least 1 kilogram of payload, and cost under $15 million. Advisors include Rob Meyerson and Matt Gialich, and the project is seeking donations as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The mission would be the first directed interstellar journey to another star, but with an expected travel time of about 80,000 years, its arrival would occur far beyond any human lifetime. The effort is intended to demonstrate feasibility and inspire future generations, rather than provide a near-term visit to Alpha Centauri.