The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has recently publicized its plans to launch a solar-powered ‘space yacht’, according to a number of media reports this week.

The Interplanetary Kite-craft Accelerated by Radiation of the Sun (IKAROS) satellite uses a special 66-foot sail made of thin-film solar technology that will allow the ship to use pressure as a form of propulsion, and that will be created by the reflection of sunlight off the sails. The satellite craft will also be fitted with solar cells to generate electricity.

IKAROS will launch from Tanegashima Space Center on May 18, according to JAXA.