Publication year: 2008
: 978-0-387-68500-7
This book describes solar sails, how they work and what they will be used for in the exploration of space in an easily readable manner which does not necessitate any prior knowledge of physics or solar sailing. It discusses current plans for solar sails and also describes how advanced technology, such as nanotechnology, might enhance solar-sail performance. Much has been accomplished recently to make solar sail technology very close to becoming an engineering reality and it will soon be used by the world’s space agencies in the exploration of the solar system and beyond.The book has four parts, each with multiple chapters which, in turn, contain some references and suggested further reading. Parts 1 - 3 are non-mathematical, while Part 4 contains more detailed technical information.
: Engineering / alternative propulsion / reaching the stars / space technology / space travel / star / stellar / technology / Aerospace Technology and Astronautics / Popular Science general / Space Sciences (including Extraterrestrial Physics, Space Exploration and Astronautics) / Astronomy / Astrophysics and Cosmology