What are the Challenges in Developing Light Sails with Nanotechnology?
Despite the promising advantages, there are significant challenges in developing light sails:
- Fabrication: Creating large-scale, defect-free nanomaterials is a complex and costly process. - Thermal Management: The sails must withstand extreme temperatures in space without degrading. - Radiation Resistance: Prolonged exposure to cosmic radiation can damage even the most robust nanomaterials. - Deployment Mechanisms: Ensuring reliable deployment and control mechanisms in the harsh environment of space remains a technical hurdle.
