In 1970, an astrophysicist named Koryo Miura had an epiphany that would become one of the most famous and studied folds in origami: the Miura-ori. The pattern of folding forms a set of polygons whose structure opens and closes in a single motion — providing an elegant way to pack the solar panels for Japan’s Space Flyer Unit satellite in 1995.

Miura-ori provides a floppy sheet with form and stiffness. Scientists have explored how to use Miura-ori to build a number of 3-dimensional structures with applications in robotics, aerospace and architecture. Even fashion designers have incorporated Miura-ori into everyday clothing.