Application filed in Russia for patenting disposal of spent satellites using inflatable devices - NPO Mashinostroyeniya
REUTOV (Moscow region). Nov 15 (Interfax-AVN) - NPO Mashinostroyeniya specialists have applied to patent the removal of spent and distressed satellites from orbit using inflatable brakes, NPO Mashinostroyeniya Honorary General Director and General Designer Herbert Yefremov told Interfax-AVN on Tuesday.
"We have applied for a patent so that every satellite with an orbit of less than 500 kilometers is equipped with an elementary inflatable device for rapid evacuation from orbit whenever that is necessary," he said.
"Once this 'bubble' device is deployed, it should become solid so that even depressurization does not alter its form. We can do that. The 'bubble' will sizably enlarge the satellite's cross section to boost the braking effect of the residual atmosphere," the scientist said.
"According to estimates, the material for creating a bubble of two meters in diameter will initially occupy about 1.5 cubic decimeters," he said.
"The device will be activated either by radio from the Earth or upon a failure of satellite systems. The device will cut the period of satellite removal from orbit, say from a 500-kilometer circular orbit, eight times to 1.5-2 years," Yefremov said.
"Aerodynamic braking devices are best for altitudes of less than 500 kilometers. Braking engines with mandatory fuel reserves have to be used at higher altitudes," he said.