A Methodology to Repair or Deorbit LEO Satellite Constellations

In this thesis, mitigation of space debris is addressed by examining an approach for repair or de-orbit of a specific population of non-functional Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Basic orbital mechanics propagation of the orbits was used as the process for computing a solution to the time and intercept position for the targeted satellites. Optimal orbital maneuvers to reach the target satellites from a pre-established orbit were also considered. In this way minimum ΔV budget, rendezvous time and mass budgets were managed. The Clohessy-Wiltshire Equations and two-impulsive rendezvous maneuvers were used to determine the orbital path of a chase satellite between two position vectors, along with the time of flight. A monopropellant propulsion system was assumed in order to estimate propellant mass requirements. This methodology can be applied to a variety of satellite constellations, as implemented using MatLab and Analytical Graphics, Inc. STK software. Several cases were investigated in the study. Simulations showed that the methodology can provide guidance for the rendezvous process, facilitating a minimum ΔV budget and minimum rendezvous time

Robotics and AI-Enabled On-Orbit Operations With Future Generation of Small Satellites

The low-cost and short-lead time of small satellites has led to their use in science-based missions, earth observation, and interplanetary missions. Today, they are also key instruments in orchestrating technological demonstrations for On-Orbit Operations (O 3 ) such as inspection and spacecraft servicing with planned roles in active debris removal and on-orbit assembly. This paper provides an overview of the robotics and autonomous systems (RASs) technologies that enable robotic O 3 on smallsat platforms. Major RAS topics such as sensing & perception, guidance, navigation & control (GN&C) microgravity mobility and mobile manipulation, and autonomy are discussed from the perspective of relevant past and planned missions

A Flexible Image Processing Framework for Vision-based Navigation Using Monocular Image Sensors

On-Orbit Servicing (OOS) encompasses all operations related to servicing satellites and performing other work on-orbit, such as reduction of space debris. Servicing satellites includes repairs, refueling, attitude control and other tasks, which may be needed to put a failed satellite back into working condition. A servicing satellite requires accurate position and orientation (pose) information about the target spacecraft. A large quantity of different sensor families is available to accommodate this need. However, when it comes to minimizing mass, space and power required for a sensor system, mostly monocular imaging sensors perform very well. A disadvantage is- when comparing to LIDAR sensors- that costly computations are needed to process the data of the sensor. The method presented in this paper is addressing these problems by aiming to implement three different design principles; First: keep the computational burden as low as possible. Second: utilize different algorithms and choose among them, depending on the situation, to retrieve the most stable results. Third: Stay modular and flexible. The software is designed primarily for utilization in On-Orbit Servicing tasks, where- for example- a servicer spacecraft approaches an uncooperative client spacecraft, which can not aid in the process in any way as it is assumed to be completely passive. Image processing is used for navigating to the client spacecraft. In this specific scenario, it is vital to obtain accurate distance and bearing information until, in the last few meters, all six degrees of freedom are needed to be known. The smaller the distance between the spacecraft, the more accurate pose estimates are required. The algorithms used here are tested and optimized on a sophisticated Rendezvous and Docking Simulation facility (European Proximity Operations Simulator- EPOS 2.0) in its second-generation form located at the German Space Operations Center (GSOC) in Weßling, Germany. This particular simulation environment is real-time capable and provides an interface to test sensor system hardware in closed loop configuration. The results from these tests are summarized in the paper as well. Finally, an outlook on future work is given, with the intention of providing some long-term goals as the paper is presenting a snapshot of ongoing, by far not yet completed work. Moreover, it serves as an overview of additions which can improve the presented method further

The Issues and Complexities Surrounding the Future of Long Duration Spaceflight

The Comprehensive Exam put forward by this proposal is intended to address the learning objectives covered by the Master of Aeronautical Science Degree with specializations in Aviation Aerospace Safety Systems and some limited aspects in Human Factors in Aviation Systems. This will be accomplished by researching the following topics: effects of long duration spaceflight on crew performance and functioning and the steps that should be taken to enable long term spaceflight mission crews in lieu of accomplishing important missions; a human factor analysis should current human-machine design interfaces be enhanced to make manual rendezvous and docking in space easier to perform. This exam will also inspect extensive analysis concerning the human factor implications involved in manually controlled rendezvous and docking missions in space. Furthermore, an evaluation will be made on how emerging virtual modeling technology can aid in solving ergonomic design problems of the International Space Station. Finally, this research will provide a discussion concerning the potential long term consequences of the enormous amount of debris in Earth orbit and strategies for debris mitigation followed by an analysis concerning how microgravity induced physiological issues are counteracted for future long duration space missions. The researcher will utilize mixed research methodology by investigating the relationship and correlation between the results obtained using inferential statistics, such as linear regressions

Space station automation study-satellite servicing. Volume 1: Executive summary

A plan for advancing the state of automation and robotics technology as an integral part of the U.S. space station development effort was studied. This study was undertaken: (1) to determine the benefits that will accrue from using automated systems onboard the space station in support of satellite servicing; (2) to define methods for increasing the capacity for, and effectiveness of satellite servicing while reducing demands on crew time and effort and on ground support; (3) to find optimum combinations of men/machine activities in the performance of servicing functions; and (4) project the evolution of automation technology needed to enhance or enable satellite servicing capabilities to match the evolutionary growth of the space station. A secondary intent is to accelerate growth and utilization of robotics in terrestrial applications as a spin-off from the space station program

Autonomous Systems, Robotics, and Computing Systems Capability Roadmap: NRC Dialogue

Contents include the following: Introduction. Process, Mission Drivers, Deliverables, and Interfaces. Autonomy. Crew-Centered and Remote Operations. Integrated Systems Health Management. Autonomous Vehicle Control. Autonomous Process Control. Robotics. Robotics for Solar System Exploration. Robotics for Lunar and Planetary Habitation. Robotics for In-Space Operations. Computing Systems. Conclusion

2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy

This document is an update (new photos used) of the PDF version of the 2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy that will be available to download on the OCT Public Website. The updated 2020 NASA Technology Taxonomy, or "technology dictionary", uses a technology discipline based approach that realigns like-technologies independent of their application within the NASA mission portfolio. This tool is meant to serve as a common technology discipline-based communication tool across the agency and with its partners in other government agencies, academia, industry, and across the world

Space station automation study-satellite servicing, volume 2

Technology requirements for automated satellite servicing operations aboard the NASA space station were studied. The three major tasks addressed: (1) servicing requirements (satellite and space station elements) and the role of automation; (2) assessment of automation technology; and (3) conceptual design of servicing facilities on the space station. It is found that many servicing functions cloud benefit from automation support; and the certain research and development activities on automation technologies for servicing should start as soon as possible. Also, some advanced automation developments for orbital servicing could be effectively applied to U.S. industrial ground based operations

Intelligent tutoring systems for space applications

Artificial Intelligence has been used in many space applications. Intelligent tutoring systems (ITSs) have only recently been developed for assisting training of space operations and skills. An ITS at Southwest Research Institute is described as an example of an ITS application for space operations, specifically, training console operations at mission control. A distinction is made between critical skills and knowledge versus routine skills. Other ITSs for space are also discussed and future training requirements and potential ITS solutions are described