Manned Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) Servicing
Abstract
The Manned Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) Servicing program, an outgrowth of the FREND program, will investigate the feasibility, risks, and technologies necessary for human and robotic servicing of spacecraft in GEO. To date, servicing operations have not been conducted on spacecraft beyond LEO. A large number of national security and commercial space systems operate at GEO altitudes, furthermore, many end-of-life or failed spacecraft drift without control through portions of the GEO belt, creating a growing hazard to operational spacecraft. DARPA has previously pursued technologies for servicing of spacecraft with the expectation such servicing would involve a mix of highly autonomous and remotely (i.e., ground-based) teleoperated robotic systems. The Manned GEO Servicing program will build upon this DARPA legacy, tackling the more complex GEO environment, and developing technologies to allow for both human and robotic servicing. Key challenges include transportation and orbital maneuvering, life support, radiation protection, robotic systems and integration, and extravehicular tool requirements. The anticipated transition partners are NASA and the Air Force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 0b28c941760f9f5d49d3490ed9c5f95f