Optimizing the Space Transportation System

Abstract

This study examines a scenario for bolstering the operational control exercised over the U.s. satellite fleet. An Extended Space Transportation System (STS) composed of a Shuttle, Space Station, and Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV) is analysed using a nonlinear optimization technique. The OTV deploys a postulated fleet of military satellites across the entire gamut of inclinations and altitudes. The use of both chemically and ion propelled OTVs are evaluated. Applying a vector optimization process to the latter simultaneously minimizes both the average OTV mission duration and annual Shuttle launches. The resulting efficient operating frontier specifies a series of optimal inclinations, altitudes and OTV sizes at which the system should be operated. Total Shuttle launch rates for the Extended STS are significantly less than for direct orbital insertion of satellites with the Shuttle. Equally important, the ion propelled OTV satellite deployment times are probably fast enough to satisfy the military requirement of rapid deployment.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1982
Accession Number
ADA124920

Entities

People

  • Jess M. Sponable

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Altitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Computer Programs
  • Deployment
  • Earth Orbits
  • Engineering
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Military Satellites
  • Payload
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Rapid Deployment
  • Satellite Orbits
  • Space Objects
  • Space Stations
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft

Readers

  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Satellites