This paper analyzes the dynamics of a long tether connecting two spacecraft in earth orbit, one of the spacecraft having dominant mass. In particular, it considers the material damping of the tether. The nominal position of the tether is stabilized by the gravity gradient such that it is aligned with the local vertical. The tether is modeled as a viscoelastic flexible continuum. Modal frequencies are derived in an analytical approximation form. Damping ratios are estimated according to the linear model calibrated by ground measurements. The results show that, with properly chosen tether material and braiding structure, longitudinal vibrations of the tethered system are well damped.


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    Title :

    Tether damping in space


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Intl. Conference on Space Tethers for Science in the Space Station Era ; 1987 ; Venice, Italy


    Publication date :

    1988-01-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English


    Keywords :


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