In 2011, NASA and DARPA undertook a study to examine capabilities and system architecture options which could be used to provide manned servicing of satellites in Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO). The study focused on understanding the generic nature of the problem and examining technology requirements, it was not for the purpose of proposing or justifying particular solutions. A portion of this study focused on assessing possible capabilities to efficiently transfer crew between Earth, Low Earth Orbit (LEO), and GEO satellite servicing locations. This report summarizes the crew transfer aspects of manned GEO satellite servicing. Direct placement of crew via capsule vehicles was compared to concepts of operation which divided crew transfer into multiple legs, first between earth and LEO and second between LEO and GEO. In space maneuvering via purely propulsive means was compared to in-space maneuvering which utilized aerobraking maneuvers for return to LEO from GEO. LEO waypoint locations such as equatorial, Kennedy Space Center, and International Space Station inclinations were compared. A discussion of operational concepts is followed by a discussion of appropriate areas for technology development.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Crew Transfer Options for Servicing of Geostationary Satellites


    Contributors:
    J. A. Cerro (author)

    Publication date :

    2012


    Size :

    28 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English





    Servicing communication satellites in geostationary orbit

    Russell, Paul K. / Price, Kent M. | NTRS | 1990


    Advanced Propulsion System Options for Geostationary Satellites

    Deininger, W. D. / American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics / Society of Automotive Engineers et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994