Post by BigHairyKev on Nov 12, 2004 18:31:41 GMT
A solar sail spacecraft designed to be propelled by the pressure of sunlight will be launched early next year, The Planetary Society said Tuesday.
Cosmos 1 will be carried into Earth's orbit by a converted intercontinental ballistic missile launched from a submerged Russian submarine in the Barents Sea, the space exploration organization said.
Solar sails are envisioned as a means for achieving interstellar flight. Though very gentle, solar pressure should allow such spacecraft to gradually build up great speeds over time, and cover great distances.
Covering 720 square yards, the sail should be visible as a bright pinpoint of light in the night sky.
Cosmos 1 will be carried into Earth's orbit by a converted intercontinental ballistic missile launched from a submerged Russian submarine in the Barents Sea, the space exploration organization said.
Solar sails are envisioned as a means for achieving interstellar flight. Though very gentle, solar pressure should allow such spacecraft to gradually build up great speeds over time, and cover great distances.
Covering 720 square yards, the sail should be visible as a bright pinpoint of light in the night sky.