The LightSail 2 is the result of crowdfunding spacecraft efforts. It was recently announced that the LightSail 2 started to use its solar sail in space, where it relies on photons from the sun to propel it. The Planetary Society also indicated that the device's solar sail was able to be angeled withing 30 degrees of the intended angle.
The LightSail 2 was initially launched approximately a month ago, where the Planetary Society chose Kennedy Space Center as the launch site. The LightSail 2 was placed on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket in order to put the spacecraft into orbit. The spacecraft is expected to elevate its orbit over the course of the next month and then return to earth the following year.
Solar Sail Spacecrafts
The LightSail 2 is Uses the Sun's Energy for Space Travel
Trend Themes
1. Crowdfunding Spacecraft - As traditional space exploration becomes less feasible for startups and small companies, crowdfunding efforts may provide a new avenue for innovation in this industry.
2. Solar Sail Propulsion - With advancements in solar sail technology, industries relying on long-term space travel may be able to reduce their reliance on traditional rocket propulsion systems and create more efficient space travel.
3. Light-based Propulsion - The success of the LightSail 2's reliance on photon energy from the sun for space travel may pave the way for even more innovative light-based propulsion systems for spacecraft in the future.
Industry Implications
1. Aerospace - Advancements in solar sail technology may present an opportunity for aerospace companies to develop more efficient and cost-effective propulsion systems for space travel.
2. Clean Energy - Solar sails and other light-based propulsion systems may offer a new avenue for clean energy research and development in industries outside of traditional space exploration.
3. Funding Platforms - The successful crowdfunding campaign for the LightSail 2 spacecraft may encourage the development of more platforms designed specifically for crowdfunding space exploration and technology projects.