Deployable Space Structures

This course focuses on the design and implementation of spacecraft deployable structures. Students are introduced to the requirements driving the design of large spacecraft structures, various design approaches to realize deployable structures, and modeling and analysis tools for the design of deployable structures. The course introduces articulated structures, thin coilable shell structures, origami membranes, and cable nets. Students analyze the design of flight examples including the ISS roll out solar arrays, James Webb Space Telescope, and many others. Students will design a concept for a deployable spacecraft structure that meets functional, mechanical, and environmental requirements.