Debris Hazards Mitigation by Orbital Recovery

摘要

Space debris consist a major challenge for future projects on the space elevator as on regular space flight itself. The mechanics of large spaces (MLS) is here used to anticipate the dynamics of membrane tethers, proposed as a genuine solution to be deployed in orbit for recovery of these dangerous space debris. Made of super-strong, light materials like M5 or carbon nano-tube ribbons, they are proposed to be extended at LEO altitudes with a span of up to 100 meters. Numerical modeling show that membrane structures manifest usual libration motion around local vertical and offer proper condition for collecting small orbital debris over long periods. The dynamics of these tether systems, especially during collisions, is modeled by computer codes and presented through graphical diagrams.