ACS3 Solar Sail Takes Unexpected Tumble in Orbit

NASA's $20M Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3), launched April 23, 2024, aboard Rocket Lab's Electron from New Zealand, is currently tumbling in Earth orbit after a slight bend in a structural boom during sail deployment. Despite the uncontrollable spin, engineers remain optimistic about stabilizing the 12U CubeSat's 30-foot sail to test groundbreaking solar propulsion technology. Partners like NASA's Langley and AST&Defense are rallying to salvage the mission, potentially revolutionizing deep space travel—proof that even sails can have their off days!