SUMMARY
The flux on a solar sail at 3 AU from the Sun is calculated to be 0.15 kW/square meter, derived from the known flux of 1.36 kW/square meter at 1 AU using the formula Flux = 1/r². To relate this flux to force, one must consider the angle of incidence of the light and the absorption versus reflection characteristics of the sail. The pressure exerted on the sail can be expressed as Radiative Pressure = Flux/c, where c is the speed of light.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of solar flux and its dependence on distance from the Sun
- Knowledge of radiation pressure and its calculation
- Familiarity with the concept of angle of incidence in physics
- Basic principles of photon behavior in terms of reflection and absorption
NEXT STEPS
- Research the concept of radiation pressure and its applications in spacecraft propulsion
- Study the effects of angle of incidence on solar sail performance
- Learn about the speed of light (c) and its role in calculating radiative pressure
- Explore the principles of photon flux and its impact on energy transfer in space
USEFUL FOR
Aerospace engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in solar sail technology and space propulsion systems.