Overview
IKAROS is a small-scale demonstration satellite that uses solar power generated via thin film solar cells attached to its sail, called a solar sail because it captures the sun's energy to propel itself. This experiment verified that the satellite could be accelerated with solar power while it was also possible to control the trajectory of the satellite with LCD devices and verify navigational technology that made use of the solar sail. IKAROS was launched on May 21, 2010, on an H-IIA rocket and successfully demonstrated solar sail propulsion, power generation via thin film solar cells, and trajectory control capabilities.
Key facts
- Payload
- —
- Reach
- —
- Speed
- —
- Weight
- 310 kg
- IP rating
- —
- Battery
- —
- Power
- —
- Autonomy
- fully autonomous
- Launch year
- 2010
- Price
- —
- Status
- active
Detailed specifications
Other2
- Deployment Count
- 1
- Deployment Notes
- Deployed in two stages: first quasi-statically by onboard mechanism, then dynamically using centrifugal force from spinning at up to 20 rpm[1][2].
Reviews for IKAROS
Loading reviews…