Orbital transfers - An evolutionary answer to evolutionary requirements
Abstract
Mission profiles for transfer orbits are outlined, along with the design and performance envelopes of multimission kick motors for satisfying the profiles. The missions include short transfer within an orbit, placement, retrieval or servicing of a coorbiting satellite, round trips from LEO-GEO, and sending large or hazardous objects to an atmospheric burn up. The boost motor sizing in LEO-GEO missions is dependent on the satellite mass, required delta-V and the propellant mass. Two classes of boost vehicles are identified, medium and large. The boosters would be compatible with either the Ariane 4 or the Shuttle. Booster motor propulsion would be increased by joining two propulsion modules together. Infra-orbit transfers, as performed by a service module, would be performed by modules which could fly several sorties before refueling. The possibility of bringing the maneuvering modules back to earth for refurbishment is discussed.
- Publication:
-
Lausanne International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984laus.iafcQ....E
- Keywords:
-
- Ariane Launch Vehicle;
- Geosynchronous Orbits;
- Orbit Transfer Vehicles;
- Technology Assessment;
- Transfer Orbits;
- Space Shuttle Boosters;
- Space Transportation System;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles