SPACE: Planetary Society’s Solar Sail Test a Success in Space. “An experimental solar sail is being called a success three weeks after its arrival in space. The Planetary Society said Wednesday its test flight resulted in an almost full deployment of the sail — an estimated 90 percent to 95 percent of the 344-square feet light and shiny surface — and has set the stage for a follow-up mission next year. The goal is to create a sail that can be propelled through space by sunlight, thus opening exploration to practically anyone, anywhere.”