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Technology

Origami-Inspired Deployable Structures for Foldable Solar Array Packaging

Quick fact

The Miura-ori fold, inspired by a Japanese map-folding technique, is used in solar arrays (like on the ISS) to achieve a 3-to-1 packaging ratio, dramatically reducing stowed volume.

Why this is interesting

Ever wondered how a solar array as large as a football field fits inside a rocket? Origami might hold the answer—turning flat panels into intricate folds that unfold in space.