Robotic Servicing of Geostationary Satellites (RSGS)
Abstract
A large number of national security and commercial space systems operate at geostationary earth orbit (GEO), providing persistence and enabling ground station antennas to point in a fixed direction. Technologies for servicing of GEO spacecraft would involve a mix of highly automated and remotely operated (from Earth) robotic systems. The Robotic Servicing of Geostationary Satellites (RSGS) program, an outgrowth of the Phoenix program budgeted in this Project, will establish robotics operations in GEO suitable for a variety of potential servicing tasks, in full collaboration and cooperation with existing satellite owners. The program will establish the ability to assist with mechanical malfunctions such as solar array deployment; provide assistive thrust to increase the flexibility of fleets of operational satellites; and use camera systems to perform very detailed inspections to help troubleshoot satellite problems and increase transparency of GEO operations. Key challenges include; developing automated robot reflexes for safety of operations, robotic tools, efficient orbital maneuvering of the servicing vehicle, robotic arm systems, and mission simulation and validation. The anticipated transition will be through a commercial spacecraft operator who will provide services to both commercial and military satellites on a fee-for-service basis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2016
- Source ID
- 3c9844d69a8e31b679f772df3165bb72