Abstract: A lightweight single layer microstrip membrane antenna for space radar applications which, in an exemplary application, is adapted to be furled on a spool and carried into space by a space shuttle orbiter where it is easily unfurled to form an antenna. The membrane antenna includes gore sections which are connected by metal mesh members that are folded in the furling process to avoid folding of the gore sections. The metal mesh members may also act as primary power busses for suitable transmit/receive antenna modules that are connected to series strings. Current regulators and zener diodes are connected in the strings of antenna modules to provide for continued operation of the antenna in the event of failure of antenna modules.