Webb Telescope / NGST - ILC Dover

ILC in conjunction with NASA GSFC and JPL developed a deployable sunshield demonstration unit for study in the development of the Next Generation Space Telescope which was subsequently named the James Webb Space Telescope. Lightweight inflatable structures with embedded deployment control mechanisms were employed to deploy and support the sunshield membranes. A half-scale unit consisting of 4 independent shallow pyramidal membrane assemblies were constructed and tested for deployment dynamics and shape control.

In-depth testing was conducted on the coated membrane materials to study the impact of various manufacturing techniques, packing and deployment effects, and cycling, on the optical and structural properties of the film under simulated life cycle conditions. Seam testing and characterization of the structural members was also conducted. A flight experiment was of the Inflatable Sunshield In Space (ISIS) was planned but didn't take place due to manifesting difficulties.