Abstract: A solar array with a blanket having solar cells incorporated in modules that can readily be removed, replaced, and accordion-folded to a stowed condition. A scissors array having tracks in which scissors linkages are slidingly fitted enables the array to be stowed or deployed from a container in which the module are interleaved with soft, compressed leaves that protect the blanket from inertial forces during handling and launching.

Abstract: A redundant-race bearing system incorporates a pair of ring-shaped race members. The race members are coaxial and axially spaced apart from one another. Each race member has a radial cross-section that includes a plurality of tracks. These tracks form a confining pattern that enables lateral and axial restraint.

Abstract: A redundant-race bearing system according to this invention incorporates a pair of ring-shaped race members. The race members are coaxial and axially spaced apart from one another. Each race member has a radial cross-section that includes a plurality of tracks. These tracks form a confining pattern that enables lateral and axial restraint.

Abstract: An extendible structure that can be collapsed to a shorter length and extended to a longer length. A pair of station members are interconnected by at least three longeron members. Each longeron member has two longeron elements that are pivoted together so they can fold toward one another or aligned to form a column. Each element is pivoted to a respective station member. Stays rigidify the structure when extended, and are opposed by buckling springs (Euler columns) that exert an outward resultant force on each longeron member at its folding point.