Solar sails, utilizing light pressure for propulsion, could enable human travel to distant stars within the next two decades. Recent studies indicate that missions like Project Svarog and Solar Cruiser are technologically feasible, despite challenges in material durability and deployment. These advancements may transform solar sails into a viable propulsion method for future space exploration.

• 01Solar sails are designed to harness photon pressure for propulsion, differing from traditional sails that use wind.
• 02Recent studies suggest that solar sails could reach the edge of our solar system within 10 to 20 years.
• 03Project Svarog aims to send a solar sail probe to the heliopause, utilizing sun-diving techniques for acceleration.
• 04NASA's Solar Cruiser project, though recently shut down, aimed to study solar phenomena using solar sail technology.
• 05Technological advancements in materials and deployment systems are critical for the success of long-range solar sail missions.

The development of solar sails could revolutionize space exploration, allowing for faster and more efficient travel to distant solar system locations.