Preliminary Study of Employing Space-Based Mirrors for Augmented Illumination of Cislunar Resident Space Objects
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Publication Date
1-23-2023
Abstract
The imaging and inspection of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) is an increasingly important mission as space-faring nations and commercial enterprises alike seek to develop means to repair and refuel spacecraft, as well as de-orbit RSOs to reduce orbital debris. Lighting conditions are not always advantageous for an imaging/inspection or repair/refuel spacecraft; therefore, the use of mirror spacecraft to reflect solar energy is proposed to illuminate dimly lit RSOs. The present study investigates the efficacy of space-based reflectors at examining spacecraft in the cislunar environment. Specific assessments include a target spacecraft in Geosynchronous Earth Orbit, periodic orbits around L1 and L2, and reflectors in periodic orbits around L1, L2 and L4.
Source Publication
AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum
Recommended Citation
Cook, A., Dahlke, J., & Bettinger, R. A. (2023, January 23). Preliminary Study of Employing Space-Based Mirrors for Augmented Illumination of Cislunar Resident Space Objects. AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum. AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum, National Harbor, MD & Online. https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2023-0758
Comments
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