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5 layer sunshield for foldable JWST

The single layer mylar/foil sunshield just didn't do it for me so I created a 3D printable, 5 layer sunshield
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updated November 8, 2025

Description

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The foldable JWST model is awesome, but the single layer mylar/foil sunshield just didn't do it for me so I created a 3D printable 5 layer sunshield. Just barely fits on my Prusa XL which has a 36x36cm bedsheet so you'll need a similar size 3D printer or bigger to print this. 

Print at a 45 degree angle. I recommend printing with silk filament on a smooth bed sheet and with all 5 layers in the same orientation otherwise the direction of the lines on the first layer will be different, and the layers will reflect light slightly differently at a single viewing angle. Print with 0.2mm layer heights, this gives a 2 layer thick shield.

Ribs on the bottom are to keep shield layers evenly separated. 

The existing arms are a bit short so the shield looks a like small in the middle dimension compared to the real JWST. I may redesign the arms to be slightly longer and rerelease the shield with more realistic dimensions. Let me know if this is something you want!

Obviously the JWST no longer folds with this sunshield, but all the mirror part still move which is the best part anyways!

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Model origin

The author remixed this model.

Differences of the remix compared to the original

3D printable 5 layer sunshield to be used instead of a single layer mylar/foil shield.

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