JSC "Reshetnev" (part of Roscosmos) has mastered the technology of creating a large-sized transformable reflector with an improved deployment system. Reflectors are the main working elements of onboard antennas; they are used to transmit satellite radio signals and receive signals from ground stations or space objects.
The enterprise designed, manufactured, and tested a prototype 12-meter umbrella-type reflector. The main advantage of the development is a special fabric stowage technology that minimizes the dimensions of the structure in its launch configuration and provides additional opportunities for compact placement of spacecraft antennas under the launch vehicle fairing.
Satellite manufacturers also solved the problem of reducing the reflector's mass by 5% by using only one actuator to extend the spokes and bring the structure into working position. For military satellites, this is especially important: every saved kilogram can be used to increase fuel reserves or install additional equipment. In addition, one actuator instead of several significantly reduces the risk of deployment mechanism failure — a critical factor for unserviced spacecraft in orbit.
Such reflectors are in demand for military communication satellites to provide secure communication for troops and UAV control, for electronic intelligence spacecraft to intercept signals, and for radar satellites to monitor ground objects and detect missile launches. The solution will be applied in the creation of promising satellites.