Large-sized transformable space antenna reflector made оf composite materials dynamic modeling process

Large space structures (LSS) occupy a special place among other objects of space technology. Due to their large size, these structures are compactly stowed under the fairings of the launch vehicles or in the cargo compartments of the Space Shuttle type spacecraft. After launch into the working orbit, they are deployed automatically into the predetermined configuration with the help of transformable elements, which act both as the load-bearing frame and actuators. The deployment should be carried out within the specified time and should not negatively affect the strength, shape or spatial orientation of the structure. To meet these requirements, it is necessary to theoretically investigate the deployment dynamics of the LSS under consideration. This paper aims to find the optimal design and engineering solutions of an ultralight transformable reflector for a space antenna made of metal mesh with load-bearing elements in the form of telescopic hollow rods made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic. The deployment dynamics of the load-bearing elements with the mesh attached was modeled using the Russian-made software package EULER 10.25. The modeling allowed us to estimate the effect of the tensile load from the mesh on the deployment process. With the elastic load from mesh accounted for, the stability and rigidity of the load-bearing elements will be ensured and the accuracy of the mesh tension will be increased.