Magnetic De-spinning of Space Objects, Year 2
Project Description
Objects in orbit about the earth rotate such that a service spacecraft cannot grapple to them. There are few techniques available to despin a space object without damaging it so that grappling can occur. Electrostatic approaches have been considered, but magnetic approaches have not been sufficiently studied. The basic theory has been developed by the PI and partners when the space object can be modelled as a hollow sphere. Need to explore the parameter space and study a variety of magnetic configurations, large weak fields versus small intense fields and steady state versus time varying. Need to account for orbital dynamics and approach range and time scale issues.
More »Anticipated Benefits
Repair/refuel defunct spacecraft, Deorbit space debris safely. NASA missions will eventually need to attach a satellite to a tumbling object, be it a defunct vehicle or a small asteroid. Trying to attach to the object while it is tumbling will likely lead to damage, so an approach is required to de-spin the object.
More »Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Kennedy Space Center
(KSC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Kennedy Space Center, Florida |
| Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) | Supporting Organization | Other US Government | Notre Dame, Indiana |
| Cornell University | Supporting Organization | Academia | Ithaca, New York |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
District of Columbia
-
Florida
-
New York
