Star Shade

StarShade is a prototype solar-powered shade canopy designed for rapid deployment wherever off-grid power is needed. Inspired by NASA’s folding origami shade sails and solar arrays for deployment in space, StarShade uses a dynamic scissor mechanism that allows it to fold and unfold easily with minimal on-site assembly.

The mission of the project is to develop a simple, low-cost, open-source, rapidly deployable solar energy resource station that can provide sufficient solar energy to reduce or replace the use of fossil-fuel generators and provide reliable power for event operations, art installations, and theme camps.

Note: Precipitation Northwest 501(c)(3) came in as a collaborative funder and matched the BWB Civic Ignition Grant. 

Do you have an idea for a project in your community? Sign up for our newsletter HERE to get notified about our next grant cycle!