Interstellar solar sails hit a strange problem at 75% of light speed

Solar sails pushed by powerful lasers could reach incredible speeds, but relativity may eventually make the light itself work against them. At around 75% of the speed of light, scattered photons can begin creating drag, adding a surprising obstacle to interstellar travel. Reaching another star within a practical amount of time will require something far more capable than chemical rockets [1].

Sources

1. sciencedaily.com · Interstellar solar sails hit a strange problem at 75% of light speed Sep 2, 2026

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