Disclosed are systems and methods for a distributed space transportation network. Satellite launches to orbit are more efficiently performed by large rockets. Modern satellites are in smaller form factor, leaving the large launch rockets with excess capacity. Small satellite operators can use ride-shares, but do not have efficient options for delivering their satellites to their desired destination and may be forced to operate their satellites in compromise orbits. The disclosed distributed space transportation network maintains a fleet of space tugs, which can dock with satellites in space at an initial arrival destination and transport the satellites to their final destinations. In one embodiment, the space tugs can dock with satellite depots to obtain fuel and repairs.


    Zugriff

    Download


    Exportieren, teilen und zitieren



    Titel :

    METHOD OF SPACE TRANSPORTATION USING A DISTRIBUTED NETWORK OF SPACE TUGS



    Erscheinungsdatum :

    15.05.2025


    Medientyp :

    Patent


    Format :

    Elektronische Ressource


    Sprache :

    Englisch


    Klassifikation :

    IPC:    B64G Raumfahrt , COSMONAUTICS



    Method of space transportation using a distributed network of space tugs

    BELIERES MONTERO IGNACIO ALEJANDRO | Europäisches Patentamt | 2025

    Freier Zugriff

    Economic Feasibility of Space Tugs

    Oswald, Michael / Stabroth, Sebastian / Wiedemann, Carsten et al. | AIAA | 2004


    Optimized Low-Thrust Orbit Transfer for Space Tugs

    Pukniel, A. | Online Contents | 2008



    Optimized Low-Thrust Orbit Transfer for Space Tugs

    Pukniel, Andrew / Burton, Rodney L. / Jaslikowski, Adam | AIAA | 2008