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Shape control of slack space reflectors using modulated solar pressure
Andreas Borggräfe1, Jeannette Heiligers1, Matteo Ceriotti2
1Advanced Space Concepts Laboratory, Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering , University of Strathclyde , Glasgow G1 1XJ, UK.
Proceedings. Mathematical, Physical, and Engineering Sciences
|September 8, 2015
Summary
This study explores controlling space reflector shape using variable reflectivity to manage solar radiation pressure. This enables precise parabolic shapes for applications like solar power and telescopes.
Area of Science:
- Spacecraft Engineering
- Optics
- Astrophysics
Background:
- Large spin-stabilized space reflectors are crucial for future missions.
- Solar radiation pressure significantly affects reflector shape and stability.
- Controlling deflection is key for optimal performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the static deflection profile of space reflectors under solar radiation pressure.
- To explore the use of variable reflectivity for shape control.
- To derive a method for achieving specific deflection shapes, such as parabolic.
Main Methods:
- Modeling the reflector film as one-dimensional slack radial strings.
- Semi-analytic derivation of the nominal deflection profile.
- Utilizing an inverse method to determine optimal reflectivity distribution.
Main Results:
- A method was developed to derive deflection profiles based on solar pressure.
- Variable reflectivity can precisely control the reflector's deflected shape.
- Achieving parabolic shapes with short focal distances is possible with slack films.
Conclusions:
- Optically controlled reflector films offer a novel way to manage solar pressure.
- This technology has potential applications in solar power, RF antennae, and optical telescopes.
- Further development can lead to advanced space-based optical systems.
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