Today, a satellite has to be designed to survive its launch environment since this is the worst-case loading condition for the satellite. This results in an over design of the satellite structure; thereby, adding extra weight to the satellite structure that could be used for additional science/commercial purposes. The USAF Research Laboratory is actively investigating an approach to minimize launch loads to satellites in the form of a whole-spacecraft launch isolator. The objective of the current effort is to reduce the launch-induced structural-borne dynamic acceleration of the satellite by insertion of an isolation system that provides the satellite a softer ride to space. This paper discusses several efforts being analyzed and managed by the USAF Research Laboratory in the area of whole-spacecraft launch isolation. These programs are targeted for small to medium class launch vehicles, but the technology is applicable to all sizes of launch vehicles. This paper presents the work performed from several of these programs, and discusses the near term flight opportunities for the Air Force Research Laboratory's whole-spacecraft isolation systems.
Soft Ride for Satellites
Sixth ASCE Specialty Conference and Exposition on Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space ; 1998 ; Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States
Space 98 ; 94-101
1998-04-21
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English
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