Formation Flying: From precursor to operational missions – Alcatel Alenia Space Road-Map
- Paper number
IAC-07-A3.1.03
- Author
Mr. Xavier Roser, Thales Alenia Space, France
- Year
2007
- Abstract
Formation Flying is considered now as the major enabling technologies for new generation space observatories but also for fundamental physics. Enhancement by a factor 10 of today state of the art observation resolution will require focal length, apertures which are no longer compatible with a monolithic spacecraft suited to a large launcher fairing. Several science missions are under preparation and studied by Alcatel Alenia Space: XEUS and Simbol-X (X-Ray focusing telescopes), MAX (Gamma-ray focusing telescope), ASPICS (coronograph for Sun observation) and DARWIN. Alcatel Alenia Space is now preparing all the technologies for these missions. The present paper will focus first on summarizing the mission formation flying requirements. In a 2nd step consistent formation flying architecture will be defined consistent with the different class of needs. Finally, development and validation approach for the formation flying technologies will be covered: from ground test beds to in-orbit precursor missions in which Alcatel Alenia Space has a major role (PRISMA, PROBA-3). Impact of formation flying on spacecraft system design and AIV will also be analysed in the paper.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-07-A3.1.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.