NASA Langley previews next-generation solar sail technology [Video]

HAMPTON, Va. — NASA is working to expand our understanding of the sun and the solar system. On Tuesday, researchers at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton talked about its next-generation solar sail technology, called the “Advanced Composite Solar Sail System.”

Solar sails use the force of light – not rocket fuel – to fly in deep space. They get a gentle, constant push from sunlight particles, or photons, hitting their giant reflective surfaces. Over time, solar sails can travel farther than traditional spacecraft, faster and maybe one day reach other stars.

NASA officials say this could enable ambitious, lower-cost deep space missions.

The solar sail system could launch as early as April 24 aboard a Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle from New Zealand.