On-orbit assembly and servicing of future space observatories

Abstract

NASA's experience servicing the Hubble Space Telescope, including the installation of optical elements to compensate for a mirror manufacturing error; replacement of failed avionics and worn-out batteries, gyros, thermal insulation and solar arrays; upgrades to the data handling subsystem; installation of far more capable instruments; and retrofitting the NICMOS experiment with a mechanical cryocooler has clearly demonstrated the advantages of onorbit servicing. This effort has produced a unique astronomical observatory that is orders of magnitude more capable than when it was launched and can be operated for several times its original design life. The in-space operations capabilities that are developed for NASA's Exploration Program will make it possible to assemble and service spacecraft in space and to service them in cis-lunar and L2 orbits. Future space observatories should be designed to utilize these capabilities. This paper discusses the application of the lessons learned from HST and our plans for servicing the Advanced X-ray Astrophysical Observatory with the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle and the Space Station Freedom Customer Servicing Facility to future space observatories, such as SAFIR and LifeFinder that are designed to operate in heliocentric orbits. It addresses the use of human and robotic in-space capabilities that would be required for on-orbit assembly and servicing for future space observatories, and describes some of our design concepts for these activities.

10-Year Anniversary of the European Proximity Operations Simulator 2.0—Looking Back at Test Campaigns, Rendezvous Research and Facility Improvements

“…In astronomy, space telescopes with large main mirrors could outclass Hubble [11]. To make such an undertaking cost effective, these large structures have to be assembled in orbit, preferably by unmanned spacecraft [12,13].…”

Assessment of architectural options for a dual-mode disaster monitoring constellation supported by on-orbit propellant depots

“…38 In addition, various concept studies done on robotic on-orbit servicing have proved its feasibility and benefits. [39][40][41][42] Refueling is one of key functionalities expected of the on-orbit servicing. Along with the improvements in enabling technologies, the on-orbit refueling is becoming a more and more viable option to extend the lifecycle of spacecraft.…”

Method for Collision Avoidance in Spacecraft Rendezvous Problems with Space Objects in a Phasing Orbit

“…Currently, Spacecraft rendezvous has been considered as one of the key technologies for on-orbit service, including space debris removing, on-orbit assembly, spacecraft repairing, and on-orbit refueling [1][2][3]. Several on-orbit service missions have been carried out as technology demonstration for a cooperative spacecraft, XSS of Air Force Research Laboratory [4], Demonstration for Autonomous Rendezvous Technology (DART) program of NASA [5], ETS-VII project of JAXA [6] and etc.…”