Apparatus and method of capturing an orbiting spacecraft by attaching a grapple fixture are discussed. A probe is inserted into an opening, such as rocket nozzle, in the spacecraft until a stop on the probe mechanism contacts the spacecraft, a lever is actuated releasing a spring loaded rod which moves axially along the probe removing a covering sleeve to expose spring loaded toggle fingers which pivot open engaging the side of the opening. The probe is shortened and tensioned by turning a screw thread, pressing the fingers inside of the opening to compress the spacecraft between the toggle fingers and the stop. A grapple fixture attached to the probe, which is thus secured to the spacecraft, is engaged by appropriate retrieval means such as a remote manipulator arm.
Apparatus and Method of Capturing an Orbiting Satellite
1985
24 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
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