For the cylindrical intersecting-latticed-three-dimensional-beams-system (ILTDBS) reticulated mega-structure with double-layer plane-plate grid substructures, the configuration, form parameters, the support styles of the main structure, and the support ways of the substructures on the main structure are analyzed firstly in this paper. Then the geometrically nonlinear mechanical model and corresponding stability analysis procedure are developed, and the structural stability including buckling modes, ultimate loads under different kinds of conditions and a series of parametric analyses are researched. Moreover, the general failure conditions of the structure are discussed. Finally the basic static properties of the structure are investigated, and a series of parametric analyses with respect to static properties of the structure are performed. All this work will provide theoretical guidance to the actual engineering application of this structure. © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.