Julia+blog+2

Today is launch day! Unlike chemical rockets, our solar sail ship will not require a rocket or engine to launch. Instead, laser beams will be directed from a satellite, in orbit, onto the solar sails. In addition, microwaves will also be directed at the sails to give it an extra boost (Ha Ha get it booster rocket) into space. Our ship will then be propelled into space. To protect our delicate solar sails from the harsh conditions of the atmosphere, they will be closed during launch. Meaning, once in space our solar sails will be deployed.To be honest I am nervous. I know I have trained for this moment for seven years, but I still have anxiety at the thought of laser beams.

P.S. Our launch site is the International Space Airport(a.k.a Spaceport America) in literally the middle of nowhere New Mexico. Here's some pictures of the beautiful scenery and the Spaceport!