According to our current understanding of physics, humans cannot travel at the speed of light. The theory of special relativity, proposed by Albert Einstein, sets a cosmic speed limit known as the speed of light in a vacuum, denoted by “c,” which is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (about 186,282 miles per second).
Special relativity states that as an object with mass accelerates towards the speed of light, its mass increases, requiring an infinite amount of energy to reach the speed of light. As an object with mass approaches the speed of light, its energy requirements become impractical and unattainable. Therefore, from a practical standpoint, it is not possible for humans or any massive object to reach or exceed the speed of light.
Additionally, there are significant implications in terms of time dilation and length contraction at relativistic speeds, where time slows down and distances appear to shrink from the perspective of an observer traveling close to the speed of light. These effects further complicate the possibility of achieving or surpassing the speed of light.
However, it’s worth noting that scientific understanding can evolve, and future discoveries may bring new insights into the nature of space, time, and propulsion systems. As of now, though, it remains beyond our current technological capabilities to travel at or exceed the speed of light.