What Materials are Used in Nanotechnology for Light Sails?
The primary materials used in the fabrication of light sails are:
- Graphene: Known for its incredible strength and conductivity, graphene offers a perfect balance of lightweight and durability. - Carbon Nanotubes: These cylindrical nanostructures are renowned for their strength and flexibility, making them ideal for the lightweight and high-strength requirements of light sails. - Metamaterials: Engineered at the nanoscale, metamaterials can manipulate electromagnetic waves in ways that natural materials cannot, enhancing the sail's ability to harness photon pressure efficiently.
