The Math of Origami – Huzita–Hatori Axioms

Origami can solve cubic equations – more powerful than straightedge and compass (which solves quadratics). The seven Huzita–Hatori axioms describe all possible single‑fold constructions. For example, axiom 6 (folding two points onto two lines) solves general cubics. In 1980, Robert Lang used origami mathematics to design a 3D cuckoo clock with 108 steps. Origami also appears in airbag folding, stent deployment, and space telescopes (the James Webb mirror folded to fit in a rocket).