Satellite servicing using the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle in low earth orbit
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Authors
Cutri, Anthony D.
Subjects
Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle
satellite servicing
polar satellites
expendible launch vehicles
low earth orbit
satellite servicing
polar satellites
expendible launch vehicles
low earth orbit
Advisors
Boger, Dan C.
Loomis, Herschel H.
Date of Issue
1990-06
Date
June 1990
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The concept of servicing and repair of satellites in low earth orbit (LEO) using the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV) is examined. While current polar orbiting satellites, it could be economically applied to any LEO in which sufficient numbers of satellites are located or where individual satellite cost mission justify servicing. Increases in cost effectiveness and operational flexibility of in space systems can be realized when the capability to replenish consumable fluids, propellants and Orbital Replacement Units (ORUs) are incorporated into satellite design. ORUs can be placed in orbit using expendable launch vehicles (ELV), specifically selected to satisfy the mission need. Several suitable small payload, low cost boosters are now under development, with attainment of operational status expected in the early 1990's. The concept calls for modular satellite design and deployment of a space based support platform. New technology could be applied in the form of upgrades and on orbit modifications much more efficiently than the current abandonreplace policy for most satellite systems. The first chapters provide background on the proposed concept, OMV and ELVs. Several polar orbiting satellite systems providing mass summary breakdowns and current cost information are described and then OMV payload servicing using the flight telerobotic servicer is discussed. Comparison of estimated OMV satellite servicing costs vs. satellite replacement for several missions is tabulated.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Space Systems Academic Group
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xiii, 111 p. ill.
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.