MIT researchers have developed modular folded structures that join flat-sheet components into stiff, lightweight shells. A 23-foot aluminum sculpture at Boston Public Library demonstrates the approach at a much larger scale than a tabletop model.

The team reports promising stiffness in simulations and assembly using hand tools. Larger architectural testing remains ahead. Emergency shelters and aerospace parts are possible applications, not completed deployments.

There is a pleasing idea here: some strength can come from a better fold, rather than simply adding more material.

Source published October 27, 2026

NASA's profile of engineer Daniel Cohen describes a habit with an immediate payoff: he sets aside a couple of hours each week to teach interns orbital mechanics and control systems.

Rice University student Malvika Bhardwaj is developing analysis tools for work on the U.S. Deorbit Vehicle. She describes the satisfaction of debugging a project she built from scratch, alongside learning how colleagues support one another.

The lesson travels well beyond spaceflight: mentoring works when it has a real place in the calendar. Patient explanation and practical work give a new colleague a chance to contribute.

Source published October 27, 2026