Systems-Level Feasibility Analysis of a Microsatellite Rendezvous with Non-Cooperative Targets

Abstract

The feasibility of using a microsatellite to accomplish an orbital rendezvous with a noncooperative target was evaluated. This study focused on identifying and further exploring the technical challenges involved in achieving a noncooperative rendezvous. A system engineering analysis and review of past research quickly led to a concentration on the guidance, navigation, and control elements of the microsatellite operation. The integration of control and orbit determination algorithms was investigated. A simple yet robust solution could not be found to meet reasonable rendezvous criteria, using essentially off-the-shelf technology and algorithms. System feasibility has been assessed to have a low probability in the very near term.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2004
Accession Number
ADA424365

Entities

People

  • Allen R. Toso

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • Biomedical
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Algorithms
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Astronautics
  • Control Systems
  • Engineering
  • Engineers
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Ground Control Stations
  • Microsatellites
  • Navigation
  • Small Satellites
  • Space Objects
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Systems Engineering

Readers

  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers