Future possibilities of Planetary society's solar sail idea.

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential applications and challenges of using solar sails for space travel. The speakers question whether solar sails can be used to deflect large objects, propel spacecraft to interstellar destinations, and travel beyond Jupiter and Saturn using only sunlight. They also mention the Wikipedia article as a source of information on these topics. While these things are possible, their efficiency is uncertain and may require a significant amount of time.
  • #1
Monsterboy
303
96
I don't know how long this solar sail idea has been here , the Planetary society's second solar sail failed to achieve its objective right ? I am interested in the applications of this technique.

1) Is it possible to use them to deflect large asteroids and comets away from the Earth ?

2) Is it possible to propel a spacecraft with solar sail using a powerful laser or some other kind of focused beam of light to interstellar destinations ? even though it might take a long time to reach there.

3) Is it possible to propel it beyond , say Jupiter, Saturn just by sunlight ?
 
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  • #2
Have you checked the wikipedia article? It answers most of those questions.

All those things are possible*, but their efficiency is questionable.

*even the Pioneer and Voyager probes and New Horizons will reach interstellar distances eventually, but they'll need hundreds of thousands of years for that.
 

FAQ: Future possibilities of Planetary society's solar sail idea.

1. What is a solar sail and how does it work?

A solar sail is a spacecraft propulsion system that uses the pressure of sunlight to propel itself through space. It consists of a large, lightweight sail made of reflective material, such as mylar, that reflects sunlight and transfers its momentum to the sail, propelling the spacecraft forward.

2. What are the potential benefits of using solar sails in space exploration?

Solar sails have several potential benefits, including reducing the cost of space travel by utilizing free energy from the sun, enabling longer missions by not relying on limited fuel sources, and allowing for more precise and controlled maneuvers in space.

3. What challenges need to be overcome for solar sails to be a viable option for space travel?

One of the main challenges is developing a sail material that is strong enough to withstand the harsh conditions of space, including radiation and micrometeoroids. Another challenge is designing a navigation system that can accurately control the sail's trajectory and orientation.

4. How could solar sails be used to explore other planets and potentially even other star systems?

Solar sails could be used to explore other planets by harnessing the power of sunlight to provide propulsion and maneuvering capabilities. They could also be used to reach other star systems by gradually accelerating over long periods of time, eventually reaching speeds that would allow for interstellar travel.

5. What advancements in technology are needed to make the concept of solar sails a reality?

Advancements in materials science, such as developing stronger and more durable sail materials, are needed to make solar sails a viable option for space travel. Additionally, improvements in navigation and control systems, as well as advancements in solar panel technology for powering the spacecraft, would also be beneficial.

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