Researchers have shared a transformative new tool for atmospheric exploration with the invention of passive, sunlight-powered floating structures. Led by Ben Schafer, a former graduate student from Harvard University, this innovative project aims to unlock new possibilities for studying the mesosphere, a largely unexamined region of Earth’s atmosphere located 50 to 100 kilometers above the surface. Alongside the engineering, the research team successfully proved that these structures can operate sustainably in those challenging environments. This discovery is a milestone in the development of new technologies for planetary exploration.
The idea to use photophoresis particles to move large floating structures dates back more than ten years. This atrociously smart concept was hatched by the world-famous scientist David Keith. Keith is currently a distinguished professor at the University of Chicago. In fact, he first theorized a number of uses for these particles, especially their ability to fight global warming. Schafer and his collaborator Jong-hyoung Kim have recently pioneered a whole new category of nanofabrication. Their work allows for the development of centimeter-scale devices that will greatly change how scientists have studied the upper atmosphere.
Background on the Research Team
Ben Schafer’s path into this cutting-edge research started back when he was a graduate student at Harvard University. He worked intensively with world-renowned professors Joost Vlassak and David Keith. His academic journey and professional growth were significantly molded by their mentorship. Joost Vlassak, the Abbott and James Lawrence Professor of Materials Engineering at Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), provided critical guidance that shaped the technical direction of the project. His expertise was instrumental in shaping its development.
It was their combined talents that allowed Schafer’s and Vlassak’s collaboration to produce a new and precise nanofabrication process. This reproducible technique provides research teams the ability to fabricate structures on the order of tens of centimeters, dynamic structures fundamental to efficient exploration of atmospheres. As Vlassak noted, “We developed a nanofabrication process that can be scaled to tens of centimeters,” highlighting the practical implications of their work.
Along with Vlassak’s expertise, David Keith’s contributions helped provide the theoretical backbone for the project. His original understanding of photophoresis particles laid the groundwork for searching out their own highlighted potential applications to atmospheric science. The synergy between these researchers has been key in pushing their understanding of the upper atmosphere forward.
Advancements in Nanofabrication
The research team’s innovation hinges on their development of a low-pressure chamber within Joost Vlassak’s lab. This facility allowed the team to test their floating structures in simulated real-world atmospheric conditions on model-scale prototypes. In experiments at laboratory conditions, the device was able to reach levitation at an air pressure of 26.7 Pascals under 55% sunlight intensity. This demonstration is an important step towards realizing the feasibility of solar energy to power devices in very rugged and demanding settings.
Schafer expressed excitement about their results, stating, “Previously, nothing could sustainably fly up there.” The ability to create functioning devices capable of floating in the mesosphere opens up numerous avenues for scientific inquiry and exploration. It gives researchers new tools to collect data from geographic areas that have been mainly inaccessible because of technological barriers.
This work has deep ramifications for life beyond our planet as well. These innovations may open new opportunities for exploring and communicating on Mars in innovative new ways. As scientists look to understand extraterrestrial atmospheres better, the lessons learned from this research may guide future missions and technologies.
Implications for Atmospheric Research
The developed sunlight-powered floating structures mark a unique and unprecedented new class of devices specifically designed for exploring the upper atmosphere of our planet. As a result of their passive operation, they minimize dependence on traditional power sources, resulting in a better and greener future. This transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy matches recent development in the climate change movement and the call for greener technologies.
The team’s efforts increase our collective knowledge about what is happening in the atmosphere. It further helps spur the creation of cutting-edge solutions to the nation’s climate-related challenges. Keith’s original hypothesis about photophoresis particles adds a whole new level of intrigue to climate science. By taking advantage of these particles, researchers would be able to test the potential of using stormwater mitigation to reduce climate warming effects more broadly.