The stability of a light sail riding on a laser beam is analyzed both analytically and numerically. Conical sails on Gaussian beams, which have been studied in the past, are shown to be unstable in ...

Diffraction gratings could allow laser-sailing craft to hold the line. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. Spacecraft could fly to ...

Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent every weekday. Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. On a slate-gray day in September, 89-year-old Bruce Kirby leans ...

At 24 years old, Anne-Marie Rindom has burst onto the Laser Radial scene with the focus and easy-going attitude of a years-more seasoned sailor. Now ranked second in the Laser Radial by World Sailing, ...

In this illustration, a low-power laser (red cone) on Earth could be used to shift the orbit (red lines) of a small probe (grey circle), or propel it at rapid speeds to Neptune and beyond. Credit: ...