The Space Mission Design Example Using LEO Bolos

Aerospace

关键词: tether;    launch assist;    momentum transfer;    spacecraft propulsion;   

DOI  :  10.3390/aerospace1010031

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

Four sample space launch missions were designed using rotating momentum transfer tethers (bolos) within low Earth orbit and a previously unknown phenomenon of “aerospinning” was identified and simulated. The momentum transfer tethers were found to be only marginally more efficient than the use of chemical rocket boosters. Insufficient power density of modern spacecrafts was identified as the principal inhibitory factor for tether usage as a means of launch-assistance, with power densities at least 10 W/kg required for effective bolos operation.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2013 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.