Function of the solar sail

  The main function of the solar sail is to generate electrical power from solar radiation. The main requirements for the solar sail are as follows: (a) Foldable: It should be foldable so that it can be stored compactly before deploying (b) Lightweight: It should be light to reduce fuel requirement for the spaceship during launch from earth. (c) Does not degrade: It should not corrode or degrade. (d) Able to harvest energy: It should be able to harvest solar radiation when used in space. Based on our discussion in Chapter 1, write an essay to select the most suitable material class. In your essay, justify your selection in as much detail as possible. Your essay should address/contain the following: a) State the class or family of material you feel would be suitable. b) Relate the relevant properties between the material class selected with its structure (bonding type, etc). Be as technical as possible using concepts that we have learned in ME 201. c) Discuss how non-engineering factors that you feel need to be considered; such factors could be cost, etc