Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Attitude control
Patent
1985-11-07
1987-05-12
Barefoot, Galen
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Attitude control
B64G 164
Patent
active
046643443
ABSTRACT:
Apparatus and method of capturing an orbiting spacecraft by attaching a grapple fixture. A probe is inserted into an opening, such as a rocket nozzle, in the spacecraft until a stop on the probe mechanism contacts the spacecraft, a lever is actuated releasing a spring loaded rod which moves axially along the probe removing a covering sleeve to expose spring loaded toggle fingers which pivot open engaging the side of the opening. The probe is shortened and tensioned by turning a screw thread, pressing the fingers inside of the opening to compress the spacecraft between the toggle fingers and the stop. A grapple fixture attached to the probe, which is thus secured to the spacecraft, is engaged by appropriate retrieval means such as a remote manipulator arm.
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Gardner Dale A.
Harwell William D.
Barefoot Galen
Barr Hardie R.
Fein Edward K.
Manning John R.
The United States of America as represented by the Administrator
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