3. The features of satellite separation from the orbital plane and putting it in the orbit
The features of separation of a reusable satellite from an aerospace plane are close analogy to those, when a satellite separates from the last stage of a booster (launch vehicle).
The authors suggest introducing into the practice some additional functional decisions, which will make it possible to create little-budgetary satellites with simplified construction and without necessity of their additional orientation in the space after separation from the booster (plane) while orbiting.
These features are the following:
- the satellite shape must be convenient for transportation;
- the features of satellite separation must not effect its orientation in the space;
- the booster (launch vehicle) before satellite separation must be oriented in the space at certain altitude;
- the satellite can, if necessary, be transformed for functioning in the orbit; but in this case it should be able to become transformed back to initial state for delivery to the Earth;
- the satellite must have an optimal shape for taking it from an orbit by mechanical means;
- the orbital plane must be able to fly up to the satellite for taking it from an orbit with proper orientation of the payload bay.
In the latter case it is possible not only delivery of the satellite to the Earth, but also shifting an orbit, which may be rational, when working at altitudes 300-400 km.
At these altitudes the satellites, which do not have aerodynamic efficiency, cannot function longer, than a few months. This is one more reason in favor of spherical form of the satellite without using solar-voltaic arrays or other units, causing aerodynamic braking.
Before separation of the satellite, orbital plane is oriented in the space. Separation takes place without disturbances, so there’s no need for additional orientation of the satellite. The construction of the satellite is simplified.
For removal of the satellite there is used its SFJE, which after burning-out is used as a back balance.
NEXT
|