Design Analysis for Solar Sailing from Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

As deep space exploration progresses the need for efficient means of spacecraft propulsion are essential. Current research is proving solar sailing to be both a cost effective and feasible form of maneuvering small spacecraft. Historically, to avoid the effects of atmospheric drag, solar sails have been designed to escape Earth orbit from altitudes greater than 10,000 kilometers. To increase the versatility of solar sails and to take advantage of the more frequent secondary payload options on geosynchronous transfer orbit launches, a GTO capable solar sail is proposed. A solar sail capable of GTO flight would provide small organizations and universities a feasible and cost-effective alternative to traditional propulsion for deep space missions.