Cutting the Cost of a Star Shade Occulter Using In-Space Assembly

View Video Presentation: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2021-4188.vid The Astrophysics community has shown great interest in using Star Shades to search for extra-solar planets while avoiding interference from the light coming directly from the stars they orbit. We have examined the idea of performing in-space assembly of a candidate Star Shade structure using commercially available technology, as opposed to the heritage technique of deploying a complex folded structure composed of thin, paper-like layers. In-space assembly allows the mission to benefit from operational flexibility and on-orbit verification, employing commercial technology at a significantly reduced cost. Beyond Star Shades, in-space assembly is a capability with many exciting applications in the scientific and commercial arenas. Therefore, investments promise high-value returns in many diverse areas.