Electrostatic forming and testing of polymer films on a 16-foot diameter test fixture
The large space systems technology program investigated different forms of large, lightweight, deployable structures which could be carried on the Space Shuttle. Different forms and concepts of antennas as a type of large space system were investigated. The electrostatically controlled membrane reflector made of metallized material concept was chosen. The concept is a good candidate for creating an antenna with high surface quality and has the ability to be packaged and deployed from the Shuttle with a significant reduction in weight compared to other antenna types.