Development of a Self deploying Articulated Spacecraft Boom

The ability of space borne systems to gather information can be enhanced by separating instruments from the spacecraft or by increasing antenna apertures to many times the size of the spacecraft. These deployments are often accomplished by using deployable booms as both deployment linear actuators and deployed structure. In many cases the ability to deploy structures that are extremely stable thermally and structurally is a requirement. There are several variations of deployable booms for systems that require precise thermal stability, articulated trusses are unequalled because they can use low coefficient of thermal expansion materials and provide the requisite stiffness. Articulated booms require a motor and deployment mechanism to form the boom once on orbit. The state of the art deployment mechanisms, used in articulated booms are large, massive and complex, requiring power from the host spacecraft to deploy. Starsys research is developing a new type of self deploying articulated spacecraft boom that does not require a conventional deployment mechanism therefore exhibiting lower volume, lower mass, lower parts count, lower cost and has enhanced capabilities over existing deployment mechanism and boom technologies.