Shape_Accuracy_Analysis_of_Starshade_Petals

A starshade is a large deployable light-blocking screen used in tandem with a telescope for direct imaging of planets around other stars. The overall deployment of a starshade relies heavily on the deployment of its individual petals. The petal is stowed for prolonged periods before deployment. This necessitates thorough assessment of the laminated composite structure used in the petals. Through viscoelastic testing and simulations, it is shown that the shape accuracy of the petals is remarkably influenced by the polymer viscoelasticity. This paper presents the modeling and characterization of the composite laminates, as well as simulations and experiments on the deployed shape of segments of a petal. In-plane and out-of-plane shape distortions are addressed to develop an understanding of the dimensional stability and shape accuracy of the starshade petals.