How do solar sails defy the laws of physics?

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SUMMARY

Solar sails operate on the principle of momentum transfer from photons, which, despite having no mass, carry momentum. This momentum allows light to exert a force on the sail, enabling propulsion through the conservation of momentum. The discussion highlights the potential of using lasers to enhance the propulsion of solar sails, demonstrating a practical application of these principles in space exploration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photon momentum and energy transfer
  • Basic principles of conservation of momentum
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic waves and their properties
  • Knowledge of solar sail technology and its applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanics of photon momentum in classical electromagnetism
  • Explore the design and functionality of solar sails in space missions
  • Investigate the use of lasers for propulsion in solar sail technology
  • Study the implications of momentum conservation in various physical systems
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Aerospace engineers, physicists, and enthusiasts interested in advanced propulsion methods and the principles of light-based propulsion systems.

BlakeG.
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I briefly researched this and all i found out was that the light pushes the sail as it is reflected off of its surface.

So i am left wondering how this is possible because photons apparently have no mass therefor they can't push anything. I'm sorry if this is ignorant i am no physicist. Thanks!

and if this belongs in a different area just let me know.
 
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Even though photons have no mass, they do carry momentum. Even in classical electromagnetism (in which photons do not appear), electromagnetic waves carry momentum and energy. All you need to explain the operation of a solar sail is conservation of momentum.
 
Thank you! sort of how magnets push each other i'd assume.
 
When a light source emits light, if the light has momentum, does this mean that there is a resultant force in the opposite direction for the light emitting object?
 
Denton said:
When a light source emits light, if the light has momentum, does this mean that there is a resultant force in the opposite direction for the light emitting object?

yes i think so because one plan to aid pushing the solar sail was to mount a laser on it to push the sail along
 

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