What is the Von Neumann Machine? Ted-Ed

This animated educational video explores the concept of Von Neumann machines and their potential implications for interstellar travel and the spread of civilization. It discusses the challenges of space travel and the theoretical capabilities of self-replicating machines to colonize the galaxy.

View full lesson: http://ed.ted.com/lessons/could-human-civilization-spread-across-the-whole-galaxy-roey-tzezana Could human civilization eventually spread across the whole Milky Way galaxy? Could we move beyond our small, blue planet to establish colonies in the multitude of star systems out there? These questions are pretty daunting, but their (theoretical) answers were actually put forth decades ago. Roey Tzezana describes the conceptual von Neumann machine. Lesson by Roey Tzezana, animation by Eoin Duffy.