Abstract: A friction retaining device for holding and releasing reflector panels of a satellite. The retaining devices having a friction bushing mounted thereon to prevent the reflectors from becoming disengaged from the clamp. The retaining device has a pair of opposing arms having upper ends that communicate with bumpers on the reflectors and lower portions that communicate with a release mechanism. Upon actuation of a pyrotechnic device, the reflectors are deployed. At the same time, the release mechanism disengages the lower portions of the opposing arms allowing them to remove the bumpers from the reflectors.