Automated Rendezvous and Docking of Spacecraft
Automated Rendezvous and Docking of Spacecraft
The definitive reference for space engineers on rendezvous and docking/berthing (RVD/B) related issues, this book answers key questions such as: How does the docking vehicle accurately approach the target spacecraft? What technology is needed aboard the spacecraft to perform automatic rendezvous and docking, and what systems are required by ground control to supervise this process? How can the proper functioning of all rendezvous-related equipment, systems and operations be verified before launch? The book provides an overview of the major issues governing approach and mating strategies, and system concepts for rendezvous and docking/berthing. These issues are described and explained such that aerospace engineers, students and even newcomers to the field can acquire a basic understanding of RVD/B. The author would like to extend his thanks to Dr Shufan Wu, GNC specialist and translator of the book's Chinese edition, for his help in the compilation of these important errata.
- Exclusively on docking of spacecraft
- Covers mechanical systems, control systems and mission design
- Comprehensive
Reviews & endorsements
Review of the hardback: 'This book is described as being the definitive reference for space engineers on all issues related to rendezvous and docking of spacecraft, and I would tend to agree. It draws together a wealth of information on the subject, from basic principles through to detailed examples … Overall, I'm sure the book will become an invaluable reference text for anyone wishing to learn more about spacecraft rendezvous and docking, from students in academia to industry alike. Excellent!' The Aeronautical Journal
Review of the hardback: 'The aim of this book is to comprehensively cover the techniques and issues associated with automatic rendezvous and docking. It achieves this objective … a good quality hardback … can be useful to both students on higher courses in, for example, space mission engineering and also to professional engineers working in the field.' Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers
Product details
November 2003Hardback
9780521824927
516 pages
255 × 180 × 32 mm
1.31kg
245 b/w illus.
Available
Table of Contents
- Preface
- 1. Introduction
- 2. The phases of a rendezvous mission
- 3. Orbit dynamics and trajectory elements
- 4. Approach safety and collision avoidance
- 5. The drivers for the approach strategy
- 6. The onboard rendezvous control strategy
- 7. Sensors for rendezvous navigation
- 8. Mating systems
- 9. Space- and ground-system setup
- 10. Verification and validation
- Appendix A. Motion dynamics
- Appendix B. Rendezvous strategies of existing vehicles
- Appendix C. Rendezvous vehicles of the ISS scenario
- Appendix D. Nomenclature.
