Self-replicating machines (von Neumann machine)

The colonization of space, the terraforming of the planets are not only themes of science fiction novels, but real prospects seriously considered by scientists from many countries. The complexity of this task is due to many factors, one of which is the need to create self-replicating machines for the terraforming of space objects, as well as the subsequent maintenance of the normal life of the colonists.

Self-replicating machines are also called the machines of von Neumann, an American mathematician and physicist, who proposed the idea of ​​a universal designer capable of constructing an independently identical machine. With regard to the colonization of space, in this case we are talking, as a rule, about the so-called von Neumann probe. It is a spacecraft capable of creating exact copies of itself, as well as, in accordance with the program, looking for evidence of vital activity (at the same time, the probe can simply observe or come into contact and even try to intervene in evolution).

Freeman Dyson, another American physicist, proposed his own version of the von Neumann probe, Astrokuritsu, which would be aimed at exploring only one planetary system, and not the cosmos as a whole. Another type of von Neumann probe was the so-called Berserker, whose action is aimed not only at detecting life forms, but also at their complete destruction. This technique has become the main character of many science fiction novels, where wars between humanity and intelligent machines are described.

However, scientists are still seriously considering self-replicating machines, whose action is aimed at completely peaceful purposes. Experts theoretically consider a self-replicating spacecraft that could extract minerals on other planets, as well as reproduce its exact copies for further expansion. Such ships can be used for terraforming the planet (for example, in the Venus terraforming project, machines are considered which would infinitely “multiply”, absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen).

Scientists also offer a version of the spacecraft sowers. Such ships store genetic patterns of life forms of the Earth. Such a ship "travels" through space, and when it detects a potentially suitable for terraformation (or even habitable) planet, it tries to reproduce these life forms (the so-called embryonic colonization of space).

As a result of the operation of such sowing ships on different planets, smooth terraformation may occur, which would prepare places in space for subsequent colonization. A number of science fiction novels describe how ships reproduce from genetic samples of the colonialists themselves - people.

It is quite possible that such self-replicating machines will be located on a manned ship (that is, colonization does not have to be fully automated). A person in this case would be able to independently regulate the activity of "intelligent" machines. Such an option is considered, for example, in the project of a manned flight to Mars, when astronauts will have to create all the conditions for themselves.