A solar sail could conceivably be accelerated out into space using
A) light reflected from the Earth
B) starlight from the Milky Way
C) a giant wind machine constructed in orbit around the Earth
D) a powerful laser on Earth

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most feasible option is to use a powerful laser on Earth to accelerate the solar sail. The laser would generate a beam of light that would hit the solar sail, transferring momentum to it and propelling it out into space. This method has already been tested in some experiments and is considered a promising technology for space exploration. The other options, such as using light reflected from the Earth or starlight from the Milky Way, would not provide enough force to accelerate the sail to high speeds. A giant wind machine constructed in orbit around the Earth is currently not a technologically viable option.

A Solar Sail Could Conceivably Be Accelerated Out into Space