Research, test, and demonstration experiments necessary for establishing a data base that will permit construction of large, lightweight flexible space structures meeting on-orbit pointing and surface precesion criteria are discussed. Attention is focused on the wrap-rib proof-of-concept antenna structures developed from technology used on the ATS-6 satellite. The target structure will be up to 150 m in diameter or smaller, operate at RF levels, be amenable to packaging for carriage in the Shuttle bay, be capable of being ground-tested, and permit on-orbit deployment and retraction. Graphite/epoxy has been chosen as the antenna ribs material, and the antenna mesh will be gold-plated Mo wire. A 55-m diam reflector was built as proof-of-concept with ground-test capability. Tests will proceed on components, a model, the entire structure, and in-flight. An analytical model has been formulated to characterize the antenna's thermal behavior. The flight test of the 55-m prototype in-orbit offers the chance to validate the analytical model and characterize the control, mechanical, and thermal characteristics of the antenna configuration.
Technology requirements for large flexible space structures
1983-10-01
Conference paper
No indication
English
Large space systems technology and requirements
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