LightSail 2 sends its first signals back to Earth Engadget
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The Planetary Society So some distance, it is been smooth sailing for the LightSail 2. The sun spacecraft is orbiting on its personal after being brought to space last week aboard Space X's Falcon Heavy. The venture group of the Planetary Society confirmed on Wednesday that it has set up two-manner communications with LightSail 2 and is going for walks numerous checks. According to the spacecraft's telemetry, all of its primary structures appear like running commonly. Over the next few days, a time will be set for LightSail 2 to installation its signature solar sails with a view to propel it ahead. Unlike traditional spacecraft which depend on rocket engines, LightSail 2's layout is powered by using photons from the sun. If a success, it'll be the first managed light sail ever to go into and maintain Earth orbit.
"We're all very glad — after years of instruction, we're flying an operational spacecraft!" Bruce Betts, said LightSail program manager and Planetary Society leader scientist in a statement. The spacecraft sent its first sign returned to Earth the day gone by as it flew over venture manage in Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Mission floor stations at Georgia Tech and Purdue University have additionally obtained signals from LightSail 2.
So what is next for the project? The spacecraft's cameras and momentum wheel may be tested to make certain that they're running well. This is anticipated to take kind of per week. After the tests, the project group will install LightSail 2's 32-rectangular meter solar sail. For a highlight reel of the spacecraft's mission by the Planetary Society, test out this video.
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//www.engadget.com/2019/07/05/lightsail-2-sends-its-first-indicators-again-to-earth/
2019-07-05 07:23:43Z
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