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General Discussion => Science & Nature => Topic started by: sam on May 18, 2010, 02:38

Title: Solar Sail Hybrid Launches Today From Japan
Post by: sam on May 18, 2010, 02:38

Quote

Today the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is set to launch the first spacecraft that will speed across the solar system using a hybrid solar sail—one propelled partly by solar pressure, partly by traditional solar power.

(https://www.pc-pals.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi71.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fi126%2Fweirdspaceman%2Fikaros-japan-satellite-jaxa-solar-s.jpg&hash=125ea2709917c965f27414423e141ef27edf89f3)

Image courtesy JAXA

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/05/100517-science-space-solar-sail-japan-ikaros-venus/

Title: Re: Solar Sail Hybrid Launches Today From Japan
Post by: Clive on May 18, 2010, 07:32

Quote

First proposed in the 1920s, solar sails are large reflective membranes that allow a spacecraft to be pushed by radiation pressure from sunlight, negating the need for heavy onboard fuel.

It's good to see that this has come to fruition at long last.  Let's hope it works.  8-)

Title: Re: Solar Sail Hybrid Launches Today From Japan
Post by: Rik on May 18, 2010, 10:07

Is it just me, or does that look a bit like a disco ball in the middle.

Title: Re: Solar Sail Hybrid Launches Today From Japan
Post by: Rodders on May 19, 2010, 10:02

Attack of the 50-foot Space Hankies!   (https://www.pc-pals.com/smf/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv300%2FMothballs%2FSmileys%2Fufo.gif&hash=2126353f4a35440b66e65b7d62271ddc5144cf05)

Title: Re: Solar Sail Hybrid Launches Today From Japan
Post by: Rik on May 19, 2010, 10:02

 :laugh: