While this is really cool, it's worth noting that this particular mission is a data gathering one - LightSail 2 will eventually re-enter the atmosphere and burn

While this is really cool, it's worth noting that this particular mission is a data gathering one - LightSail 2 will eventually re-enter the atmosphere and burn up, per their mission page [1]. We'll have to wait for a future mission to see one of these actually leave Earth orbit. "LightSail 2's attitude control system does not have the precision to maintain a circular orbit and continuously fly the spacecraft higher. Therefore, as one side of LightSail 2’s orbit rises, the other side will dip lower, until atmospheric drag overcomes the forces of solar sailing, ending the primary mission. The spacecraft will remain in orbit roughly a year before entering the atmosphere and burning up." [1] http://www.planetary.org/explore/projects/lightsail-solar-sailing/ http://www.planetary.org/explore/projects/lightsail-solar-sa...