The presented work is intended to develop a geometrically reduced order (homogenized) model for a large antenna space structure with flexible joints. An energy equivalence concept is employed to find the continuum model for the system. The kinetic and strain energy expressions of the fundamental elements are found based on the assumptions of the micropolar elasticity theory. Necessary assumptions are made to reduce the order of the strain variables while retaining the effects of the micro-rotations that are coupled to the primary strain terms. As a result, a micropolar-based continuum model is found for the structure with torsional joints. The vibrations equations of motion for various coordinates of the one dimensional equivalent model are presented. Subsequently, the relations between the physical parameters of the distributed parameter model and the radar structure are introduced. The effect of the asymmetric mass distribution as a result of the addition of the radar panel to the truss system is studied. For the purpose of the experimental validation of the suggested model a planar truss structure with Pratt Girder configuration was built and tested in the laboratory. The results for the experimental frequency response functions are shown to be in good agreement with the theory. Finally, the continuum model is used to quantify the effects of the thermally induced disturbances on the satellite system during the eclipse transition. / Ph. D.