solar sails
Solar sails are a form of spacecraft propulsion that uses the pressure of sunlight to propel a vehicle through space. They consist of large, reflective sails made from lightweight materials that capture photons emitted by the Sun. As these photons strike the sail, they transfer momentum, pushing the spacecraft forward without the need for traditional fuel.
This technology allows for long-duration missions with minimal energy consumption. Solar sails can travel vast distances, making them suitable for exploring distant planets and asteroids. They represent an innovative approach to space travel, harnessing the power of solar energy for propulsion.