Mindblowing: origami in space!
I vividly remember getting a book about origami when I was in my early teens and spending hours and hours folding fantastical shapes out of the most beautiful paper I had ever seen. I could never have imagined though that origami would be used in space!
We all know origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, which has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Initially it was used for ceremonial purposes, but the past 30 years or so origami has evolved into a global phenomenon which is how I got introduced to it.
I had no clue however that what I always considered as a game has found applications in various fields such as engineering, robotics, and medicine! The principles of origami have inspired the development of innovative technologies, including solar panels, airbags, and even heart stents. Now that I think about it, I have implant lenses which were inserted into my eyes through a tiny opening after which they folded out to their actual shape - origami is helping me to see!
Origami's principles are also being utilized in space exploration. Scientists and engineers have looked to origami to design compact and deployable structures for use in satellites and spacecraft. The ability to pack large structures into small spaces using origami techniques has revolutionized space missions, making them more cost-effective and efficient.
I find it amazing that the ancient art of origami continues to inspire and shape modern science and space exploration, thanks to visionaries like Robert Lang (see video) who have pushed the boundaries of what is possible with this timeless craft.
I would love to hear what you think about this!
