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IKAROS

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description IKAROS Overview

IKAROS (Interplanetary Kite-craft Accelerated by Radiation Of the Sun) was an experimental spacecraft developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Launched in 2010 alongside the Akatsuki Venus probe, it became the first spacecraft to successfully demonstrate solar sail technology in deep space. The mission proved that solar radiation pressure could be used for propulsion, benefiting researchers studying low-cost interplanetary travel.

help IKAROS FAQ

What was the IKAROS spacecraft's main achievement?

IKAROS became the first spacecraft to successfully demonstrate solar sail propulsion in interplanetary space. The sail used radiation pressure from sunlight—photons striking the reflective surface—to generate thrust without carrying propellant.

Which space agency developed IKAROS?

IKAROS was developed by JAXA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. It was an experimental technology demonstration mission designed to test solar sail deployment and propulsion.

How was IKAROS related to the Akatsuki mission?

IKAROS was launched together with the Akatsuki Venus climate orbiter in 2010 aboard the same H-IIA rocket. After launch, the two spacecraft separated and pursued their own independent mission objectives—IKAROS deploying its solar sail while Akatsuki continued toward Venus.

How did IKAROS deploy its solar sail?

IKAROS used a spinning deployment method, where centrifugal force from the spacecraft's rotation unfurled the large square sail membrane in space. This approach avoided the need for heavy mechanical booms or masts to hold the sail open.

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