Abstract One of the most promising techniques to capture large debris on orbit consists in the use of tether-nets. With this concept currently at a medium technological readiness level only, numerical studies on tether-net removal missions are still needed. This paper presents a versatile simulator developed with the aim of gaining insight into the dynamics of tether-net capture of space debris. Its modular architecture supports multiple modeling choices and allows simulating diverse capture scenarios with different system designs. Simulation results are shown for the capture of a realistic launcher upper stage with the representation of the main components of the system, consisting in chaser, main tether, net, and two possible configurations of a closing mechanism. It is shown that only a closing mechanism with more than one attachment to each side of the net can guarantee containment of this type of debris after capture. It is also observed that a safer capture scenario is one in which the axis of rotation of the target is parallel to the direction of ejection of the net. Additional simulation results suggest that tether-nets could be used to capture not only large debris, but also small asteroids, and that this simulator could enable future studies.

    Highlights A versatile simulator for tether-net capture of space objects is presented. Preferred closing mechanisms to capture launcher upper stages are identified. Safer scenarios to capture debris rotating about its major axis are identified. Capture of a small asteroid with a tether-net is investigated.


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    Title :

    Simulation of tether-nets for capture of space debris and small asteroids


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 155 ; 448-461


    Publication date :

    2018-07-22


    Size :

    14 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





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