Precision space reflector applications are associated with an accuracy beyond the customary tolerances of structural engineering. This makes the reliability of related analytical predictions critical whenever test verification is difficult, as is the case for in-flatable membrane reflectors. For pressurized membranes, however, numerical analysis can be troublesome and classic solutions exist only for the simplest configurations. Furthermore, the reliablility of solution options is not well understood. The present work contributes to filling this gap by exploring the impact of representative solution approximations on the accuracy of analytical shape predictions. The selected approximations are individually addressed via a parametric study of axisymmetric linear elastic isotropic membranes. Limits of applicability are considered for representative pressurization levels and an accuracy requirement of current professional interest for RF applications. Initially flat and curved membranes are studied, the latter designed to assume exact parabolic shapes when pressurized. The results are applicable via scaling to any dish diameter.
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