Sailing off the edge of the earth. . .again

The Columbus 500 Space Sail Race, which is intended to stimulate worldwide space exploration, education, and enterprise as well as commemorate the European discovery of the Americas, is described. Three solar sailing flagships-the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria -will be the official entries from three geographical regions: Europe, whence Columbus initiated his voyage; Asia, where he was headed; and the Americas, where he landed. Other vessels are also expected to compete. The vessel that takes the shortest time to travel from high Earth orbit to a point where it can place a commemorative plaque in high orbit around Mars will be judged the winner. The rules for the race are given, the science of solar sailing is explained, and some of the physical configurations for the sails and methods of deploying them are briefly described. Some of the experiments that are being considered to be conducted during flight are tested. Some of the technological difficulties anticipated are discussed. Plans to use the race to develop interest in science in grade schools and high schools around the world are described