As observed in the unique orbits of cosmic dust particles, a...

As observed in the unique orbits of cosmic dust particles, at small length scales, environmental forces such as solar pressure and the Loretz force can compete with gravity so significantly accelerate a body in space. We propose to employ recent advances in nanofabrication to create a new category of extremely small, low-cost, expendable spacecraft which capitalize on this scaling to enable propellantless propulsion. Such devices could open up new spacecraft mission opportunities, including distributed sensing, scientific research, exploration, and in-orbit inspection of larger satellites.