Graphene
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Graphene and lasers for space propulsion
ESA’s 86th parabolic flight campaign in May 2025 featured an international research team testing ultralight graphene aerogels. Continuous laser exposure during microgravity phases caused the samples to propel forward instantly, demonstrating light propulsion potential. Results indicate that stronger lasers yield greater acceleration, unlocking possibilities for steering solar sails and adjusting satellite positions in space.
Graphene and lasers for space propulsion
ESA's recent experiment demonstrated that graphene aerogels can be propelled by lasers in microgravity, achieving rapid accelerations. Conducted during the 86th parabolic flight campaign in May 2025, the study showed that stronger laser beams increase acceleration. This research opens pathways for future solar sail propulsion and attitude control in small satellites, potentially revolutionizing space propulsion technologies.