Abstract The effects of on-orbit fragmentation events on localized debris congestion in each of the longitude slots of the geosynchronous orbit (GEO) regime are evaluated by simulating explosions and collisions of uncontrolled rocket bodies in multiple orbit configurations, including libration about one or both of the gravitational wells located at 75°E and 105°W. Fragmentation distributions are generated with the NASA Standard Breakup Model, which samples fragment area-to-mass ratio and delta-velocity as a function of effective diameter. Simulation results indicate that the long-term severity and consequence of a GEO fragmentation event is strongly dependent upon parent body longitude at the epoch of fragmentation, which can spawn bi-annual “fragment storms” in high-risk longitude slots, driven by lower-energy fragments that have been captured and have started librating around the nearby gravitational well.

    Highlights Longitude-dependent debris congestion resulting from GEO fragmentations is evaluated. Simulated rocket body explosions and collisions over various longitudes are assessed. Bi-annual congestion spikes occur at longitudinal extents of parent libration motion. Harmonic oscillator model synthesized to forecast fragment focusing to first-order.


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Longitude-dependent effects of fragmentation events in the geosynchronous orbit regime


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 105 , 1 ; 285-297


    Publication date :

    2014-09-16


    Size :

    13 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





    Longitude-Dependent Effects of Fragmentation Events in the Geosynchronous Orbit Regime (AAS 14-321)

    Anderson, P.V. / Schaub, H. / American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2014


    Consequences of Debris Events in Geosynchronous Orbit

    Finkleman, David / Oltrogge, Daniel | AIAA | 2008


    Consequences of Debris Events in Geosynchronous Orbit

    Finkleman, D. / Oltrogge, D. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2008