Integrated Support Structures for Tensionless Reflective RF Surface Apertures

Mevicon Inc., a leading innovator in the area of lightweight tensionless membrane reflective surfaces, and ATK-Space Deployables, a leading developer of deployable space structures are pleased to propose an alternative fully passively self deploying integral RF reflector shell/support structure approach. The concept is based on Mevicon’s Membrane Aperture Shell Technology (MAST) and ATK’s space flight heritage experience with stowable elastically self deploying composite materials and structures. In particular, we propose the Mevicon’s proven RF MAST shell approach be augmented with 1) innovative shell stowage approaches, 2) co-stowable support spars to increase the number of discrete boundary supports and 3) co-stowable shell periphery support flange techniques. In the Phase I, building on the team’s base of past research, we will establish the 1) hardware feasibility studies of the basic fabrication concepts 2) expand preliminary analysis about scalability to large sizes, and 3) address other key issues critical toward realizing “readiness for flight” such as thermal CTE concerns, and improving TRL levels. This will prepare the way for a Phase II/Phase III space flight demonstration which is a key step in any realistic commercialization plan for space hardware.