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Geosynchronous Large Debris Reorbiter: Challenges and Prospects

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Abstract

An elegant solution is proposed to an old problem of how to remove expired or malfunctioning satellites from the geosynchronous belt. Previous “space-tug” concepts describe a scenario where one craft (the tug) docks with another (debris) and then boosts that object to a super-synchronous orbit. The most challenging aspect of these concepts is the very complex proximity operations to an aging, possibly rotating and, probably, non-cooperative satellite. Instead, the proposed method uses an elegant blend of electrostatic charge control and low-thrust propulsion to avoid any contact requirement. The Geosynchronous Large Debris Reorbiter (GLiDeR) uses active charge emission to raise its own absolute potential to 10’s of kilovolts and, in addition, directs a stream of charged particles at the debris to increase its absolute potential. In a puller configuration the opposite polarity of the debris creates an attractive force between the GLiDeR and the debris. Pusher configurations are feasible as well. Next, fuel-efficient micro-thrusters are employed to gently move the reorbiter relative to the debris, and then accelerate the debris out of its geosynchronous slot and deposit it in a disposal orbit. Preliminary analysis shows that a 1000 kg debris object can be re-orbited over two-four months. During the reorbit phase the separation distance is held nominally fixed without physical contact, even if the debris is tumbling, by actively controlling the charge transfer between the reorbiter and the debris. Numerical simulations are presented illustrating the expected performance, taking into account also the solar radiation pressure.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Associate Professor, H. Joseph Smead Fellow, Aerospace Engineering Sciences Department, University of Colorado, AAS, Member.

    Hanspeter Schaub

  2. President and CEO, Wacari Group LLC, Boulder 80302.

    Daniel F. Moorer Jr.

Authors
  1. Hanspeter Schaub
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  2. Daniel F. Moorer Jr.
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Correspondence to Hanspeter Schaub.

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Schaub, H., Moorer, D.F. Geosynchronous Large Debris Reorbiter: Challenges and Prospects. J of Astronaut Sci 59, 161–176 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40295-013-0011-8

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