Jettison system for a large inflatable antenna

Abstract

This paper describes a jettison system used to separate a large, inflatable-deployable antenna from a free-flying spacecraft. The jettison system consists of four discrete Marman band clamps, released simultaneously via pyrotechnics. The design, analysis, analytical simulation, and testing of the system are discussed. Of particular note is the correlation of test results with the Marman band design calculations.