The concept of a mercury-based propulsion system has been proposed and discussed in various ancient texts as well as modern theories. The idea is not new but rather rooted deep within historical accounts from different civilizations.
In the context of ancient Hindu texts such as the Vymaanika-Shaastra or Science of Aeronautics, it is suggested that vimanas, flying vehicles mentioned in Indian epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana, utilized a propulsion system based on gyroscopes, electricity, and mercury. The Samarangana Sutradhara text, believed to be at least 2,000 years old, describes an engine that uses mercury in a vortex, powered by solar heat, for creating flying capabilities.
The concept of using mercuric propulsion is also present in alchemy, where the metal's unique properties have been explored and utilized. When heated, mercury becomes ionized and ultrasonically charged, leading to theories that it could be used as a power source for propulsion systems. This idea has been further developed by researchers like Bill Clendenon who propose that when mercury containers are heated with electrically controlled fire (hot mercury vapor), the aircraft can develop ultrasonic power through ionized recirculating air flow, making it "like a pearl in the sky."
In modern times, this concept has been compared to an ion engine. Ion engines have been around for over 100 years and work by using xenon gas instead of mercury. The principle remains similar - creating thrust through electrically charging particles and accelerating them out the back of the engine. However, the idea of a mercury-based propulsion system still holds intrigue due to its historical roots and unique properties that could potentially lead to advanced technologies.
