A novel shell-membrane concept is presented in this paper to define the wrinkling analytical object. A stress field model is established and applied to determine the different regions (taut, wrinkled and slack regions) of the shell-membrane. An analytical model based on the bifurcation theory of thin-plate is introduced to predict the wrinkling wavelength and amplitude. Numerical simulation incorporating nonlinear post-wrinkling analysis is employed to simulate the detailed nonlinear wrinkling behavior. To stabilize the finite element model, the initial prestress is introduced to the model at first. The out-ofplane disturbing forces are then applied to the model to initiate the wrinkling and complete the post-wrinkling analysis. Results from numerical simulation show good agreement with the analytical prediction.

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Ultra‐large and ultra‐lightweight gossamer space structures have received wide attention because of their small packaging volume and low cost. Wrinkle is the common deformation outcome and the main failure mode of such structures. The experimental test is essential for the wrinkling analysis, as contact test cannot be used to accurately determine wrinkling behaviour because of lightweight and flexibility. A novel non‐contact dot‐printing photogrammetry (DPP) based on the technology of the printed‐dot targets is presented to measure wrinkling characteristics. The characteristics of wrinkle development of gossamer space structures are obtained by incorporating the DPP method and a tension wrinkling (TW) test. Results reveal that wrinkle formation is the predominant form of bifurcation when the membrane is undergoing in‐plane displacement. Over‐contraction deformation is the special characteristic of the wrinkles, which reflects the degree of wrinkling and region in the wrinkled membrane. The development of wrinkling can be divided into five characteristic phases, and the occurrence of the wrinkles is followed by an abrupt jump variation. DPP measurement and TW test are the effective ways to obtain accurately the wrinkling behaviours and characteristics in small‐scale gossamer structures. Finite element results based on nonlinear post‐wrinkling analysis are used to validate the experimental test. The numerical predictions agree well with the experimental results.