A "hyperspace" engine that could make interstellar space travel a reality by flying into other dimensions is being investigated by the United States government. The hypothetical device, which has been outlined in principle but is based on a controversial theory about the fabric of the universe, could potentially allow a spacecraft to travel to Mars in three hours and journey to a star 11 light years away in just 80 days, according to a report in today's New Scientist magazine. They also report that a test engine could be online within five years.

See New Scientist for the article.

See here for a PDF of the actual scientific paper.

I am very skeptical of all of this; but it sure would be cool.