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Written by many experts in the field, this book reports on the state of the art of membrane and inflatable structures technology for space applications. Due to reduced costs associated with design, fabrication, and launch of space structures, there has been a resurgence of interest in membrane structures for extraterrestrial use. Applications for membrane and inflatable structures in space include lunar and planetary habitats, RF reflectors and waveguides, optical and IR imaging, solar concentrators for solar power and propulsion, sun shades, and many others. The text begins with a broad overview and historical review of membrane and inflatable applications in space technology. It proceeds into theoretical discussion of mechanics and physics of membrane structures; chemical and processing issues related to membrane materials; developments in deployment; and ground testing, then proceeds into current applications.
List of contents
Part 1 Technology Background: Overview of Gossamer Structures; History of Relevant Inflatable High-Precision Space Structures Technology Development. Part 2 Fundamentals of Mechanics and Materials: Mechanics of Membrane Structures; Fundamentals of Membrane Optics - Modelling and Deployment of Inflatable Space Structures; Materials for Inflatables in Space; Rigidization Mechanisms and Materials; Atomic Oxygen Effects on Space Inflatable Materials; Solar Ultraviolet and Space Radiation Effects on Inflatable Materials; Electromagnetic Properties of Thin Metallized Materials. Part 3 Test Methods: Multidisciplinary Testing of Thin-Film Inflatable Structures; Rigidization Materials Testing; Electromagnetic Testing on Thin Metallized Materials. Part 4 Mission Concepts and Systems: Inflation Systems; Deployment Control Mechanisms and Packing Methodologies for Inflatable and Membrane Space Structures; Space Inflatable Radiometer System Concept; Radar Applications; Inflatable Solar Arrays; Gossamer Sailcraft Technology; Solar Shades; Inflatable Habitats; Advanced Concepts; Appendix - Selected Properties of Various Membrane Materials.
Summary
A study of membrane and inflatable structures technology for space applications. It provides an overview and historical review of the subject; theoretical discussion of the mechanics and physics of membrane structures, and chemical and processing issues; and applications and case studies.
