<ul><li>Photonic lightsails offer a potential solution for interstellar travel due to their ability to propel spacecraft using beams of energy.</li><li>A recent paper explores the principles of lightsail technology and identifies the best materials and designs for interstellar travel.</li><li>Finding the right materials like molybdenum disulfide and nano-structured designs like diffraction gratings are crucial for the success of lightsails.</li><li>However, the technology is still in its early stages and further progress is needed in material science, metalenses, and high-powered lasers.</li></ul>

Photonic Lightsails are our Best Shot at Reaching Another Star

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