Debris Hazards Mitigation and Retrieval for Space Elevators
- Paper number
IAC-06-D4.3.09
- Author
Dr. Radu Rugescu, Politechnic University of Bucharest, Romania
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Accumulating space debris in orbits around Earth stand as known hazards for future space flights, tether systems and the Space Elevator in particular. They add as extra challenges to the general known hazards. Some investigations are presented based on existing data on space debris. The present research is focused on the potential debris avoidance, hazard mitigation and possible solutions for debris retrieval from orbit by a row of applicable solutions. This could have a considerable impact on the design and cost reduction for the future space elevators. Recent events with space debris, developed during Space Shuttle and ISS flights are considered in order to evaluate the challenge over long time survival for anchored elevator systems. Those events were recorded during deployment phases of a number of small, tethered satellites deployed on board of the Space Shuttle in recent years. Avoidance techniques involve powered maneuvers and induce a dynamic response of the tether as they induce additional costs of operation that must be taken into account. Although near-Earth space debris could not present a strong hazard for the future Earth based space elevator systems, some solutions are investigated in order to mitigate these effects by retrieval systems based on deployment of small aerogel collectors. A series of ISS experiments with such experimental devices is proposed as part of the SURE FP6 ESA sponsored project run in co-operation with Romania and Bulgaria. EVA could be avoided if an opening oven were installed on board the ISS for direct exposure to outer space, particularly in front of ISS.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-D4.3.09.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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