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8mo ago

NASA's Advanced Solar Sail Now Visible in Night Sky

The fully deployed ACS3 is being tracked via NASA's app, inviting public participation in observing this innovative spacecraft.

A view of point stars in the evening sky with a bright streak of light near the top of the photo.
This artist’s concept shows the Advanced Composite Solar Sail System spacecraft sailing in space using the energy of the Sun. © NASA/Aero Animation/Ben Schweighart

Overview

  • NASA's Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) is now visible in the night sky with the help of the NASA mobile app.
  • The solar sail, made of reflective, lightweight materials, fully deployed after overcoming initial technical difficulties.
  • ACS3's deployment allows NASA to test new propulsion technologies that could pave the way for future deep space missions.
  • Stargazers can share their sightings on social media with the #SpotTheSail hashtag for a chance to be featured on NASA's platforms.
  • The ACS3 mission aims to evaluate the performance and thrust capabilities of solar sails for potential larger-scale applications.