Thermal Bending of Long Thin-Wall Booms Due to Solar Differential Heating in Near-Earth Orbits

摘要

Earth-orbiting radio astronomy satellites are currently receiving feasibility studies at APL/JHU. As part of these studies, thermal bending associated with solar and earth albedo heating of the proposed 1000-ft antennas has been examined. This report is intended to (1) Present the results of thermal bending analyses and experimentation. (2) Define the pertinent physical parameters affecting bending. (3) Recommend antenna configurations which will minimize thermal bending.