¤ Project description
The main aim is twofold:
- to develop an optical alignment system (OAS) for autonomous missions to intercept and deorbit space debris. A major component of this type of missions is entering a coordinated flight orbit with an uncooperative debris in order to safely perform the rendezvous.
- to develop an optical alignment system (OAS) to be used in rendezvous or formation flying missions
In both cases are needed precise alignment systems and that is the aim of the proposed project.
In our thinking there exist a common root : the optical system consisting in a new concept/design LIDAR system to be used in the approaching phase for first application and for the synchronizing the attitude of the spacecrafts in the second.
The basic device consisting in 4 slots disposed in a 2x2 matrix of 2 narrow beam light sources and 2 light detectors mounted diagonally. For cooperative rendezvous mission two identical devices would permit synchronizing the attitude of the spacecrafts by locking each light source on a target detector. Furthermore, the angle of emissivity on the light source can be adjusted and more devices can be designed for several approach distances increasing the accuracy of the output.
The design is flexible allowing other geometry for approaching phase, mounted on the deorbiter, consisting in a central laser diode surrounded by a matrix of photodetectors in order to target with precision the reflected light from the debris (when the CCR is impossible to use).
The project is based on the Proba 3 mission activities where the IMT Bucharest- is member in Proba3 mission team being in charge with the Oculter Position Emitter Sensor manufacturing. So we can assume that the start TRL is 2- because the systems we propose are more complex in manufacturing although we has developed the basic of a light emitter in space specific conditions and functions.
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