The use of an electrostatic force to perform general orbit corrections on a passive geosynchronous space object is investigated. Using inertial thrusters, a space tug approaches and settles into a piecewise fixed relative location with respect to a deputy object that needs to be towed to a new orbital location. Once in place, an electrostatic force is created between the two bodies using noncontact charge transfer, enabling the tugging craft to perform an inertial thrusting maneuver to modify the deputy orbit without physical contact. An open-loop analytical performance study is performed where variational equations are used to predict how much general orbital elements may be changed using this electrostatic force over one orbital period for a satellite at geosynchronous altitude. In contrast to earlier work, eccentric orbits and plane changes are also considered. The thrust direction issues associated with repositioning the tug craft during orbit modifications to achieve desired tugging force are also investigated. Numerical studies illustrate that even taking hours to maneuver the tug into a new pulling configuration only results in a few percent performance loss. Ranges of craft voltages are considered, as well as varying masses, illustrating promising deputy maneuverability.
General High-Altitude Orbit Corrections Using Electrostatic Tugging with Charge Control
Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics ; 38 , 4 ; 699-705
2015-02-17
7 pages
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
General High-Altitude Orbit Corrections Using Electrostatic Tugging with Charge Control
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