Study on launch scheme of space-net capturing system

Abstract

With the continuous progress in active debris-removal technology, scientists are increasingly concerned about the concept of space-net capturing system. The space-net capturing system is a long-range-launch flexible capture system, which has great potential to capture non-cooperative targets such as inactive satellites and upper stages. In this work, the launch scheme is studied by experiment and simulation, including two-step ejection and multi-point-traction analyses. The numerical model of the tether/net is based on finite element method and is verified by full-scale ground experiment. The results of the ground experiment and numerical simulation show that the two-step ejection and six-point traction scheme of the space-net system is superior to the traditional one-step ejection and four-point traction launch scheme.

Generation of Secondary Space Debris Risks from Net Capturing in Active Space Debris Removal Missions

“…First, the overall modelling strategy is presented in Section 2 with all its modular dynamic models. Secondly, in Section 3, the main case study is defined as the ejection of a Kevlar net with a 20 m/s impact velocity, which refers to the higher end of the typical net capturing range [12,19,20]. This is then followed by the associated dynamic and structural integrity results.…”