Roy Young

Papers

Total Citations

167

H-Index

About

Roy Young is a prominent aerospace engineer and researcher whose career has been deeply rooted in the development and advancement of solar sail propulsion technology within NASA. His work has focused on harnessing the pressure of sunlight as a viable, fuel-free propulsion method for spacecraft, positioning solar sails as a transformative technology for future space exploration. Young's most influential contribution, "Status of Solar Sail Technology Within NASA" (2010), has garnered 128 citations, reflecting its significance as a foundational reference in the field. Alongside his 2007 publications on recent advances and the broader strategic vision for solar sail propulsion, he has helped chart NASA's roadmap from early-stage research toward operational systems. Notably, his work highlights the development of first-generation solar sail systems ranging from 40 meters to over 100 meters in scale — capable of supporting inner solar system science missions and laying the groundwork for ambitious interstellar probe concepts. Through NASA's In-Space Propulsion Technology Program, Young's contributions have helped elevate solar sailing from theoretical promise to engineering reality, making his research essential reading for students and professionals exploring next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems.