Do look up! NASA unfurls massive shiny solar sail in orbit

The Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) is designed to catch emissions from the Sun and convert them into propulsion for space exploration.

Now, with the sail fully extended, the Solar Sail System may be visible to some keen skywatchers on Earth who look up at the right time.

Once testing is complete, NASA hopes to use this demonstrator to change altitudes without the need for propellant, showcasing a new paradigm in orbital maneuvering.

Solar sails were first discussed in the 17th century, highlighting the long-standing interest in harnessing solar energy for propulsion in space exploration.

Read at Theregister