Title: Dynamics of a Multi-Tethered Satellite Formation
Abstract: This paper investigates the dynamics of possible configurations for multi-tethered satellite formations. Two main possibilities are studied, one where there is a central body (hub) from which stem tethers (spokes), each of which has a satellite at its end. The other is the closed-hub-and-spoke configuration, where tethers connecting one peripheral satellite to the next are added to the configuration described above. The configurations are nominally in two-dimensions, but three-dimensional motion is studied. The cables must always be held taut to keep the satellites in place with respect to one another. This is achieved by giving an initial spin rate to the whole system, where the spin plane can be either the orbital plane or the plane normal to the orbit. The relative motion of the satellites is examined for both configurations and for varying number of bodies. The non-linear equations of motion for a circular orbit at LEO were analyzed to determine the stability properties of the configurations and examine the usefulness of the outer connections in improving stability. When the configuration spins in the orbital plane, it was found that for up to four bodies, the hub-and-spoke configuration is stable. Above that number, outer tethers are necessary. For a formation spinning in the plane normal to the orbit, similar results were obtained. The hub-and-spoke configuration is stable for up to four bodies, and outer tethers are necessary above that number.
Publication Year: 2004
Publication Date: 2004-06-22
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 19
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