This paper from NASA's Glenn research laboratory discusses the prospects for a 'breakthrough' type of space propulsion. It summarizes efforts that
looked into things similar to 'warp drives' and other science fictionish stuff:
www.nidsci.org...
When I've had the time to read it more thoroughly I'll come back and comment on it... but, after just reading the first few pages, i have to say
that it looks like a cool paper...