Prospective of tethered system in space station operations
Abstract
The use of satellite tethers for satellite launching and space station constellations is described. The tethers permit exploitation of the gravity gradient effect for stabilization, and also serve as momentum transfer devices between spacecraft at either end. Satellites can be launched into higher orbits when released outwards (away from the earth) by the unreeling of the tether line. The tether can also serve for rendezvous with a satellite in a higher orbit, allowing soft-docking to occur and enhancing the safety of the Orbiter. Modules of a space station can be separated and stabilized in constellations through the use of tethers. Spinning the tethers about their vertical axis will keep the tethers stretched. Free-flying platforms can be raised or lowered to proper orbits without propulsive maneuvers. Finally, fluid can be pumped downward between spacecraft without using on-board power.
- Publication:
-
Budapest International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1983
- Bibcode:
- 1983buda.iafcR....V
- Keywords:
-
- Fluid Management;
- Space Stations;
- Spacecraft Docking;
- Tethered Satellites;
- Fluid Management;
- Fluid Transmission Lines;
- Mass Transfer;
- Momentum Transfer;
- Payloads;
- Space Commercialization;
- Space Platforms;
- Spacecraft Docking;
- Astrodynamics