8legs: Institute of science tokyo

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The Ancient Art That Could Transform Space Communication

Japanese engineers unveil an origami-inspired deployable antenna for CubeSats, enabling compact, high-gain space communications.
The folded system fits inside a 10 cm by 6 cm box and weighs 64 grams, expanding in orbit to raise signal power.
The antenna uses a flexible two-layer textile with embedded U-shaped circuit elements to control radio waves.
Laboratory tests show the antenna achieved a gain of 18 dBic for precise signal direction.
OrigamiSat-2, a CubeSat roughly the size of a Thermos, is scheduled to carry the technology into orbit later this year.
Potential applications include space-based internet, disaster monitoring, and lunar communications.
The design emphasizes reliability by avoiding moving parts in favor of a deployed, foldable membrane.
Origami folding patterns, like the flasher, enable compact stowage and robust deployment.
The concept promises to pair lightweight materials with high-performance radio optics for small satellites.

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