SMAP's antenna is fully unfurled during a ground test.

SMAP's antenna is fully unfurled during a ground test. The structure under the golden, semi-transparent antenna surface holds the surface in its correct shape. The structure above the surface supports the antenna in Earth's gravity. Designed for use in the microgravity of space, the antenna does not have the mechanical strength necessary to support itself on Earth's surface.

ENLARGE

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