Drag Enhancement Device Prototype for Mid-Size Spacecraft

Abstract

This study constructed a drag device to demonstrate and evaluate the benefits of including a drag enhancement device for spacecraft self-disposal in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The study assessed the viability of drag enhancement device deployment and functionality for mid-size spacecraft using a scaled model constructed with polymer materials. While drag devices for CubeSats have been well studied and demonstrated, the mid-size, LEO spacecraft class most commonly deployed by the Department of Defense has not. The motivation for self-disposal is policy driven. This research targeted a simple, cost-effective approach conducted using scaled models for proof-of-concept that will lead to the final development prototype demonstrating effective deployment and functionality. The prototypes were developed using available software tools such as computer-aided design NX and were tested for structural integrity, functionality, and mechanical deployment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2019
Accession Number
AD1080476

Entities

People

  • Michelle L. Verbeeck

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Apogees
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Astronautics
  • Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Earth Orbits
  • Geosynchronous Orbits
  • Governments
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Materials
  • Small Satellites
  • Space Debris
  • Space Environments
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Three Dimensional
  • United States

Readers

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Distributed Systems and Data Platform Development
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Satellites