Self-lofting devices propelled by sunlight have been tested for the first time in near-vacuum conditions akin to those in Earth’s upper atmosphere, paving the way for a revolution in atmospheric science. The tiny, lightweight membranes — which are made of aluminum oxide and a layer of chromium — take advantage of a phenomenon known as photophoresis, which occurs when one …
Read More »Tiny devices propelled by sunlight could explore a mysterious region of Earth’s atmosphere
