The reflectors used in the world's largest telescopes are big and heavy. Instead of glass and metal, could they be made of reflective plastic? How big could a space telescope be if you could blow up the main lens like a balloon? Learn how astronomer Chris Walker is designing the next generation of telescopes with inflatable technology.

The books in the Out of This World series feature projects that have won grants from the NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts program (NIAC). The program provides funding to teams working to develop bold new advances in space technology.