On May 21st, the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), successfully launched the first solar-powered spacecraft. The kite-shaped space yacht that was attached to a meteorological satellite launched to observe weather patterns around Venus, is expected to travel to the other side of the sun and remain in orbit for three years.

The IKAROS (Interplanetary Kite-craft Accelerated by Radiation Of the Sun), is designed so that it can be pushed along by the pressure of the sunlight and also get a boost from the electricity generated by the film of solar cells that line its 7.5 micrometer (1/10 the width of a human hair) membrane. The surface of the spacecraft is made from Polyimide Resin, a man-made material that can withstand extremely high temperatures.

The membrane is also fitted with scientific observation sensors like temperature and dust controls, as well as, a little crystal device that will help navigate the spacecraft based on the changing direction of the light.

While the idea of solar-sails is not new, earlier attempts have not been very successful, largely due to the fact that we did not have the right material or technology. JAXA believes that the IKAROS may be the answer, and while it is too early to tell for sure, the initial signs are encouraging.

A day after its launch the spacecraft successfully established contact with the command center and so far, the solar generation is going well. IKAROS will continue to tag along with the satellite for about a month, before it deploys its own sail and moves on to its own orbit around the sun.

The success of a solar-powered spacecraft like IKAROS is very crucial to our ability to be able to explore other planets within our galaxy. That's because the planets are too far to reach using conventional fuel. A key element to the success of the Japanese spacecraft will be the effectiveness of its navigation system - something that cannot be fully gauged for at least six months - So stay tuned!

sources: gizmag.com,jaxa.jp