586 pgs, 2001, AIAA
ISBN 978-1563474033

With increased pressure to reduce costs associated with design, fabrication, and launch of space structures, there has been a resurgence in interest for membrane structures for extraterrestrial use. Applications for membrane and inflatable structures in space include lunar and planetary habitats, radio frequency reflectors and wave guides, optical and infrared imaging, solar concentrators for solar power and propulsion, sun shades, solar sails, and may others. The text begins with a broad overview and historical review of the technologies, proceeds to theoretical discussion of the mechanics and physics, ad then proceeds into current applications and case studies.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Overview of Gossamer Studies
2. History of Relevant Inflatable High-Precision Space Structures Technology Developments
3. Mechanics of Membrane Structures
4. Fundamenals of Membrane Optics
5. Modeling the Deployment of Inflatable Space Structures
6. Materials for Inflatables in Space
7. Rigidization Mechanisms and Materials
8. Atomic Oxygen Effects on Space Inflatable Materials
9. Solar Ultraviolet and Space Radiation Effects on Inflatable Models
10. Electromagnetic Properties of Thin Metallized Materials
11. Multidisciplinary Testing of Thin-Film Inflatable Structures
12. Rigidization Materials Testing
13. Electromagnetic Testing of Thin Metalized Materials
14. Inflation Systems
15. Deployment Control Mechanisms and Packaging Methodologies for Inflatable and Membrane Space Structures
16. Mission Concepts and Systems: Space Inflatable Radiometer System Control
17. Radar Applications
18. Inflatable Solar Arrays
19. Gossamer Sailcraft Technology
20. Solar Shades
21. Inflatable Habitats
22. Advanced Concepts