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Research on Micro Solar Power Sail |
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We are working with researchers at JAXA and Tokyo Institute of Technology on the research and development of ultra-compact solar power sails. Our laboratory is particularly interested in improving the shape accuracy of the membrane surface structure, which is deformed by a lightweight, non-rigid support structure. Since the sail structure has low rigidity and its deformation has a non-negligible effect on the orbit and attitude control performance and propulsive performance of spacecraft, it is essential to obtain a deployed shape for space demonstrations. Therefore, a numerical analysis code based on the finite element method is being developed to clarify the deformation characteristics of flexible structures in space, which are difficult to test on the ground. (M2 Tachikawa)
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