Concepts, technology, and application of ultralightweight structures in space are examined. Gossamer spacecraft represented a generic class of space vehicles or structures characterized by a low mass per unit area (approximately 50g/m2). Gossamer concepts include the solar sail, the space tether, and various two and three dimensional large lightweight structures that were deployed or assembled in space. The Gossamer Spacecraft had a high potential for use as a transportation device (solar sail), as a science instrument (reflecting or occulting antenna), or as a large structural component for an enclosure, manned platform, or other human habitats. Inflatable structures were one possible building element for large ultralightweight structures in space.
Discussion Meeting on Gossamer Spacecraft (Ultralightweight Spacecraft)
1980
186 pages
Report
No indication
English
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Online Contents | 2002
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Online Contents | 2002
|General aviation . Gossamer Spacecraft
Online Contents | 2012