Once in space, its ion propulsion system takes over. Powered by 1,500 W solar panels, it ionizes xenon propellant to build up enough thrust to de-orbit a two-ton satellite. It carries enough propellant to de-orbit two satellites, or to maintain one in its proper orbit for four years. Using a combination of an on-board targeting system and supervision from mission control, the DeOrbiter is designed to rendezvous with a satellite, match orbits, compensate for any spin, and lock on with a grapnel. Effective Space reasons that what works for de-orbiting a satellite, can also be used to boost one into a higher orbit. The company says that it would be possible to rendezvous with the errant Galileo satellites and push them back into their correct orbits. However, this would not be an immediate solution because the DeOrbiter is still in its very preliminary stages. Having completed a feasibility study, the company says that it is currently going through the process of patenting its docking technology, so it is unlikely that a rescue mission is in the near future even if Galileo’s owners accept the offer. The animation below explains the DeOrbiter concept. youtu.be/4Z2Hn3MUK5I
Posted on: Wed, 03 Sep 2014 11:48:42 +0000
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