One recent high-profile example of solar energy applications being used in a non-traditional setting comes from the Japanese space agency, which recently launched a craft that derives some of its energy from a solar sail. This technology has long been envisioned as a way to make deep space exploration possible without the expenses and difficulties of getting heavy fuel payloads into orbit.
Researchers have also been working to incorporate solar panels into automobiles, at least one experimental airplane, and shipping vessels.
In fact, Suntech Power Holdings recently announced that it will deploy a passenger vessel on the Huangpu River in Shanghai, China that uses "solarsail" technology provided by Solar Sailor, an Australian company. The vessel is said to be 31.5 meters long and will be used in conjunction with the ongoing Shanghai World Expo.
The company indicated that it has a presence in other areas of the World Expo as well, including in both the China Pavilion and the Theme Pavilion.
