Inflatable Antennas Support Emergency Communication
Originating Technology/NASA Contribution
Space exploration requires reliable and efficient communication technology. One device currently under development is the inflatable antenna. Due to several unique characteristics—it is lightweight, easy to deploy, inexpensive, and requires low storage volume—inflatable technology is especially well-suited for space applications. Without requiring mechanical actuators or human assembly, something the size of a suitcase could be inflated in space to the size of a basketball court.
https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2010/ps_5.html?linkId=44580080