In space, there is no wind—but there is an unlimited amount of light. An electrifying video that is part of a larger physics playlist shares current technology scientists use to power spacecraft with light. The narrator is not explaining solar power or power generation but how scientists use photons to push a sail through space.

Concepts

light, light energy, properties of light, quantum physics

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Learn more about LightSail

Classroom Considerations

• Content ends at 4:35, and the remaining minute is an advertisement
• Relies on prior knowledge of the properties of light

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Connects quantum physics to current technological applications
• Provides subtitles in Chinese and English for the hearing impaired

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4