Development of a 7-Meter Inflatable Reflectarray Antenna

This paper presents the structural and mechanical development of a 7-meter inflatablehelf-rigidizable reflectarray antenna that is intended for space communication applications. Several structural schemes had been developed and a trade study was conducted. Top three schemes were identified and their deployment procedures were studied. Detailed design analysis for the most attractive scheme was performed. Dynamic characteristics of this scheme was also analyzed Nomenclature first modal natural frequency young modulus of elasticity moment of inertia length of the boom parameter constant density cross sectional area I