Simulation and Testing For The Approach Of An Uncooperative Target

Kurzfassung

Uncooperative objects in space, in particular space debris, have become a serious challenge for active satellites. One solution to master the situation is the active removal of large debris. This again requires the technology for rendezvous & docking maneuver. While various ideas for the capture exist, simulations are required for sufficient testing of the process. The work presented introduces such a simulation, demonstrates its limits and possibilities. The simulation is based on a mission specified on the removal of SL-8 rocket bodies. These objects of the same geometry orbit in relatively close vicinity, which allows for the removal of multiple ones with one mission. The simulation itself concentrates on the close approach. The goal is to reach a berthing box from which a robotic arm would handle the target. The underlying mathematical background concentrates on fuel optimization based on the mission and satellite design presented. Validation of the simulations outcome is performed by comparison of the developed simulation with a second tool. A simpler mission set-up – without tumbling - will serve as basis. One challenge of the close approach is the failure management. In case something unexpected happens during the approach, time for reaction is very limited. Switching into safe mode to wait for ground control recovery could lead to a collision and thus most probably into the loss of the mission. With the implementation of self-awareness and a robust failure management to classify the symptoms, the satellite reacts to the situation accordingly without harming itself or the target. The failure management is an ad-on to the simulation and is thus addressed separately. Finally, ideas for future development to improve the simulations field of operation are presented.